EU ambassadors agree on new sanctions against Belarus to counter Russia's sanctions evasion

"This package will strengthen our measures in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, including combating circumvention of sanctions," the statement reads.

One European diplomat clarified that the text includes restrictive measures against dual-use goods, such as chips found in basic household appliances, as well as advanced technologies and military products, according to Reuters.

A provision that would have allowed Belarusian potash and other agricultural products to be exported through Europe in the event of a sharp rise in prices was also removed from the package.

EU sanctions against Belarus

The European Union approved sanctions against Belarus in July 2023, targeting aviation and dual-use goods.

In August, the EU decided to impose additional sanctions on Belarus in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine and Minsk's involvement in Russia's aggressive actions. The European Commission reported that these restrictions would improve coordination of sanctions against Russia and Belarus and prevent Russia from circumventing sanctions through Belarus. The sanctions will also expand the ban on exports to Belarus of several "very sensitive goods and technologies" that contribute to its military and technological development.

Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis called for further strengthening of sanctions on July 27.

The Financial Times reported in May 2024 that the EU plans to tighten sanctions against Belarus to limit the import of Western goods, including luxury cars, to Russia.