As reported by the correspondent Suspilne
The European Union has not yet used the instrument to counter sanctions evasion by China and other countries. European Commission spokesperson Paula Pinho explained at a briefing that the use of this mechanism is determined on a case-by-case basis and must be a measured decision to understand whether it is appropriate and timely to apply those instruments.
“whether it is appropriate and timely to apply the various instruments”
According to her, if the instrument has not yet been used, it is not by chance: there are sound reasons for having it, but it exists and can be used when they deem it necessary. The EU is currently working on the 19th sanctions package, which will be presented soon.
“depends on the circumstances”
In addition, she emphasized that currently the EU is prioritizing other, more effective means to counter sanctions evasion, but the instrument itself remains on the table; it will be used when the right moment arrives.
“It has been decided that at present this is not the instrument that is most appropriate. There are other tools in our arsenal that can be used more effectively. But this instrument remains, and when it is recognized that the moment has come to use it as well, we will do so properly”
Deputy chief spokesperson Olof Gill noted that the European Commission is also working on the 19th package of sanctions against Russia, which will be presented soon.
The international context is complemented by events: on September 13, U.S. President Donald Trump appealed to NATO countries in Europe to impose tariffs on China in the range of 50–100% due to China’s import of Russian oil. He said this could “help stop” the war that Russia started against Ukraine. Also on September 12, it was reported that the U.S. Department of the Treasury called on G7 and EU allies to impose substantial tariffs on goods from China and India to stop purchases of Russian oil and to intensify pressure on the Russian Federation. China responded by promising to intensify its response in case of further escalation.
We recommend paying attention to:
- Former US President Donald Trump urges the EU to strengthen sanctions on Russia and stop importing Russian energy to increase pressure amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
- China has imposed sanctions on two Lithuanian banks in response to EU restrictions, aggravating the financial and political relations between China and Europe.
- The European Commission allocates an additional €40 million in humanitarian aid to support vulnerable groups in Ukraine during the fourth winter of the war, focusing on shelter, heating, and essential services.
