The EU is considering sanctions against Israelis for helping Russia smuggle out stolen Ukrainian grain
The European Union may impose sanctions on individuals and companies suspected of facilitating the transport of grain, exported from the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, to the port of Haifa (Israel).
This was reported by Haaretz.
The EU stated that it condemns any actions that help finance Russia’s military efforts and facilitate the circumvention of sanctions. Brussels’ position was announced after a ship arrived in Haifa Bay that was suspected of transporting grain exported from Ukraine.
The European Union is considering adding certain individuals and entities in third countries to sanctions lists if their involvement in such operations is confirmed. Brussels is also awaiting further clarification from the Israeli side regarding the origin and status of the grain shipments.
Separately, the EU emphasized that cooperation with any schemes that may be linked to sanctions evasion or illegal trade in resources from occupied territories is under close scrutiny.
According to sources, the Ukrainian side has also provided relevant information for an investigation into the incident.
As a reminder, the European Union has expanded sanctions against Belarus as part of a new, 20th package of restrictions targeting Russia and its allies. The decision affects Belarus’s defense sector, as well as entities that, according to the EU, support Russia’s war against Ukraine. For the first time, a Chinese organization linked to Belarusian military production has also been added to the list.
On April 23, EU member states approved the 20th package of sanctions against Russia, which imposes restrictions on 46 vessels of the “shadow fleet” and 60 entities supporting the Russian military-industrial complex. The new measures include stricter export restrictions on dual-use goods and sanctions against 20 credit and financial institutions.
