Key facts
- The EU has imposed its 21st sanctions package against Russia, targeting 56 military-industrial entities and individuals.
- The sanctions specifically target the manufacturing and supply network of long-range Garpiya drones.
- Measures also target Russia's Rassvet satellite system, developed as an alternative to Starlink.
- The EU aims to increase pressure on Russia to end its war in Ukraine and enhance future European security.
- Suppliers of dual-use goods and technologies in third countries like China and India are also being targeted.
The European Union has enacted its 21st package of sanctions against Russia, targeting 56 military-industrial entities and individuals involved in Moscow's war effort. The measures specifically focus on disrupting the production and supply chains of long-range Garpiya drones and Russia's developing alternative to the Starlink satellite system, known as Rassvet.
According to EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, the sanctions aim to increase pressure on Russia to cease its "illegal war" and civilian killings. The EU is continuing its strategy of targeting suppliers of dual-use goods and technologies in third countries, such as China and India, which are often incorporated into Russian weaponry.
The sanctions package includes over 30 designations targeting the entire manufacturing and supply network for the Garpiya/Garpiya-A1 attack drone, including companies producing components like warheads and rocket boosters. A senior EU official highlighted this focus on a specific category of long-range drones, noting a "different approach" to comprehensively target its network.
Additionally, the sanctions target Russia's Rassvet low-Earth orbit satellite system, developed by Bureau 1440. This system is intended to provide high-speed internet access and is seen as a crucial component for Russian military communications. Experts suggest that denying Russia the capability to establish an alternative to Starlink could significantly impact its battlefield performance in Ukraine and its long-term military threat to Europe.
Jacob Funk Kirkegaard, a senior fellow at the Bruegel think tank, welcomed the military dimension of the sanctions but expressed caution about predicting their immediate impact, noting Russia possesses multiple types of long-range drones. However, he emphasized the strategic importance of hindering Russia's military capabilities for Europe's future security, especially as the EU prepares for long-term deterrence.