Belgian PM urges new sanctions to curtail Russia's war capability

Belgium's Prime Minister, Alexander De Croo, has voiced concerns over Russia's capacity to sustain its military operations in Ukraine, urging the implementation of a 16th sanctions package targeting critical sectors such as gas, energy, and fertilizers.

Speaking at the World Economic Forum, De Croo warned that Russia could potentially prolong its offensive for another year, underlining the need for stronger international measures, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

The Belgian leader emphasized that these measures are crucial to weakening Moscow's economic capacity to fund its war efforts.

Despite the existing sanctions imposed by the West, De Croo noted that Russia’s economy remains resilient enough to continue supporting the conflict in the short term.

Meanwhile, On December 16, EU announced its 15th sanctions package against Russia, intensifying efforts to curb the Kremlin's aggression in Ukraine. The European Commission has welcomed the package, which targets Russia's economy, military-industrial complex, and attempts to evade existing sanctions.

A cornerstone of the new measures is the expansion of restrictions on Russia’s shadow fleet. This network of 79 vessels, involved in transporting Russian oil, arms, and stolen grain, is now barred from entering EU ports and accessing EU services. These actions aim to disrupt high-risk shipping practices and increase operational costs for Moscow, while addressing environmental and safety risks posed by these outdated and poorly insured ships.

The package also adds 84 new listings of individuals and entities linked to Russia’s military and energy sectors. These include companies producing weapons and military equipment, and individuals involved in the deportation of Ukrainian children and propaganda activities.

Significantly, the EU has imposed its first-ever full sanctions on Chinese entities accused of aiding Russia’s circumvention of sanctions and supplying military-sensitive technologies. Two senior North Korean officials have also been targeted, reflecting growing international concern over Pyongyang’s support for Russia.

New trade restrictions further isolate Russia’s military-industrial complex, with 32 additional companies from Russia, China, Hong Kong, Serbia, Iran, India, and the UAE now barred from accessing dual-use goods and advanced technologies. To prevent sanctioned goods from reaching Russia through intermediaries, the EU is enhancing collaboration with third countries to enforce restrictions more effectively.

The sanctions also protect EU businesses by prohibiting the recognition of Russian court rulings in disputes involving EU companies, shielding them from unfair penalties. Extended derogations provide EU operators more time to divest from Russia. Financial measures safeguard EU Central Securities Depositories from Russian retaliation, ensuring cash recovery while limiting financial liabilities.

The EU’s approach continues to adapt to counteract Russia's circumvention strategies. By targeting critical revenue streams and technological capabilities, the sanctions aim to weaken Moscow’s ability to sustain its war efforts. EU Sanctions Envoy David O’Sullivan emphasized the importance of cooperation with global partners to maintain the sanctions' effectiveness.

As the war persists, the EU’s commitment to supporting Ukraine remains steadfast. This sanctions package is a clear signal of the bloc's determination to confront Russia’s aggression and advance towards a just and lasting peace.

By Aghakazim Guliyev