EU eyes Russian metals sanctions, pressuring Irish refinery

Key facts

• EU top diplomat Kaja Kallas suggested targeting Russian metals production in the next sanctions round.
• The Aughinish Alumina refinery in Ireland, owned by Rusal, is a key supplier of aluminum ingredients to Russia.
• Irish Foreign Minister Helen McEntee indicated support for sanctions if Irish alumina is found in Russian weapons.
• The refinery's owners have warned of potential closure and increased energy costs if sanctions are imposed.

The European Union is considering expanding its sanctions against Russia to include metals production, a move that could significantly pressure Ireland's Aughinish Alumina refinery. EU top diplomat Kaja Kallas stated on Tuesday that the bloc should target Russia's ability to produce metals and refine oil in its upcoming sanctions package.

Kallas's comments, made during a visit to Dublin, come shortly after the EU published its 21st round of sanctions. The focus on metals poses an awkward situation for Ireland, which is set to assume the EU Council's rotating presidency in July and hosts the Rusal-owned Aughinish Alumina refinery in County Limerick. This refinery manufactures alumina, a crucial ingredient for aluminum production, and has so far avoided EU sanctions.

Speaking alongside Irish Foreign Minister Helen McEntee, Kallas highlighted reports from an international investigation suggesting that Irish-produced alumina is being used in Russian weapons systems. She emphasized the need to close loopholes and ensure that no European products contribute to Russia's military capabilities. McEntee agreed that Ireland would support EU restrictions on Aughinish exports to Russia if evidence of its alumina in Russian weapons is confirmed, noting that the Irish government expects findings from its own investigation later this month.

This stance marks a shift from previous statements by Taoiseach Micheál Martin, who had previously stressed that sanctioning Aughinish production would be more damaging to Ireland than to Russia. The Aughinish refinery employs nearly 500 people, and its owners have warned that cutting off Russian customers could jeopardize the refinery's survival and increase costs for Ireland's power grid.