European sanctions are coming in Belarus, North Korea and Iran aimed at Russia

Penalties against Belarus, North Korea and Iran for yesterday’s announcement (21.03. 24) Summit. In accordance with its decision, the European Council has examined progress on the next concrete steps towards the exceptional revenue from Russia’s frozen assets for Ukraine, including the possibility of financing military support. Calls on the Council to promote work on the recent proposals by the High Representative (p. Joseph Borrell) and the Commission. Military support and EU security commitments will be provided with full respect for the security and defence policy of certain Member States and taking into account the security and defence interests of all Member States. The European Council welcomes the adoption of the 13th package of sanctions. It calls for further steps to weaken Russia’s ability to continue to wage its offensive war, including by strengthening sanctions. Full and effective implementation of sanctions is necessary, the decision notes. The European Council calls on the Council and the Commission to improve the exchange of information, strengthen implementation, strengthen the EU and Member States’ action with third countries and close all loopholes both within and outside the Union. This includes preventing the circumvention of sanctions through third countries, and ensuring their enforcement, also with regard to EU subsidiaries of companies abroad. Russia’s access to sensitive objects and battlefield technologies must be limited to the maximum possible extent, including by targeting businesses in third countries that allow such a bypass. The European Council invites the High Representative and the Commission to prepare further sanctions against Belarus, North Korea and Iran. The European Council also stresses the strategic importance of security and stability in the Black Sea region. It stresses the need to help Ukraine rebuild its position on traditional export markets, particularly in the Middle East and Africa.