BRUSSELS: The European Union Council has taken a firm stance against Russia by officially adopting its 11th package of sanctions. This latest measure comes as a response to the ongoing Ukrainian crisis, which has been a cause of concern for the international community. The EU's commitment to countering the circumvention of sanctions is evident in the inclusion of 87 new entities on the list of organizations "directly supporting Russia's military and industrial complex."
In an effort to strengthen the impact of sanctions, the EU Council has implemented a series of measures. One of the significant steps taken is the complete ban on trucks equipped with Russian trailers and semi-trailers from transporting goods into the EU. This stringent restriction aims to limit Russia's influence in the transportation sector.
To further curtail Russia's economic activities, the EU has extended the ban on the export of luxury cars. This prohibition now applies to all new and second-hand vehicles exceeding a specific engine size, as well as electric and hybrid cars. By targeting the luxury car market, the EU seeks to undermine Russia's economic stability and hinder its ability to access lucrative markets.
The temporary derogation that allowed Germany and Poland to receive crude oil from Russia through the northern section of the Druzhba oil pipeline is set to expire. The EU Council has decided not to extend this privilege, signaling a shift in its approach. However, the Council has clarified that oil originating from Kazakhstan or any other third country will still be permitted to transit through Russia and enter the EU via the Druzhba oil pipeline. This decision ensures a continued flow of oil while limiting Russia's influence over its neighbors.
Unsurprisingly, Russia has responded to the EU's sanctions with retaliatory actions. Sputnik reported on Friday that Moscow has expanded its list of banned EU representatives from entering Russia. The Russian Foreign Ministry has criticized the EU's actions, labeling them as "illegitimate" and undermining the international legal prerogatives of the UN Security Council.
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