The latest on EU sanctions
  • On 26 June, EU ambassadors in Brussels reached an agreement in principle on sanctions targeting Belarus, aligning them with measures against Russia to prevent circumvention of sanctions.
  • On 24 June, the EU Foreign Ministers approved the 14th package of sanctions against Russia, and Council Regulation (EU) 2024/1745 of 24 June 2024 amending Regulation (EU) No 833/2014 concerning restrictive measures in view of Russia’s actions destabilising the situation in Ukraine took effect on the same date.
  • EU regulations are directly applicable and have a binding legal effect. Each EU Member State is responsible for compliance with regulations in its territory. EU Member States are constantly working to ensure that sanctions are applied uniformly and effectively.
  • The Regulation covers manganese ores (CN code number 2602). In accordance with Article 3k and Annex XXIII to the current wording of the Regulation, any transfer including transshipment of manganese ore to Russia is prohibited. The transitional period is 1 monthuntil 26 July. Following the entry into force of the 14th sanctions package on 24.06, the consolidated text of the Regulation is currently being updated.

    To consult the customs system:
    • Click itvs.vid.gov.lv.
    • Enter Commodity Code “26020000”, choose “Exports” and, under the Country of Destination, choose “Russian Federation”.
    • Footnote CD869 – It shall be prohibited to sell, supply, transfer or export, directly or indirectly, goods which could contribute in particular to the enhancement of Russian industrial capacities as listed in Annex XXIII, to any natural or legal person, entity or body in Russia or for use in Russia.
  • As part of the 14th sanctions package, new sanctions have also been adopted against individuals and legal entities.
  • Intensive work is under way on new proposals to reinforce sanctions. E.g., one of the most topical directions is a further restriction of shadow fleet activity.
  • Under the legislation of the Republic of Latvia, everyone is individually responsible for compliance with sanctions. Any violation of sanctions is criminalized.
  • The competent authority in Latvia for the enforcement of sanctions is the FIU – Financial Intelligence Unit.