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The Council of the European Union has announced that it has decided to prolong the existing measure linked to internal repression in Belarus and the support of the regime for the war against Ukraine for another year.
In line with the newly taken decision, the restrictive measures against listed Belarus individuals and entities will now apply until February 28, 2024, SchengenVisaInfo.com reports.
“Considering the persistent gravity of the situation in Belarus and the involvement of Belarus in the illegal aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine, it is appropriate to maintain in force all the measures adopted by the Union. Consequently, Decision 2012/642/CFSP should be renewed until February 28, 2024,” the statement of the Council reads.
The EU has imposed successive rounds of sanctions against people and entities responsible for human rights violations, internal repressions, and involvement in Russia’s war against Ukraine since August 2020.
By taking measures against those responsible for the above-mentioned, the EU wanted to signal to the economic and political actors that their actions, as well as the support for Russia and the regime, came at a cost.
Currently, the restrictive measures apply to a total of 195 individuals, including Alexandr Lukashenko, and to 34 entities.
Belarus individuals against which restrictive measures apply are prohibited from travelling to the EU, and they are also subject to an asset freeze. Similarly, the designated entities are also subject to an asset freeze, and EU persons and entities are forbidden from making funds available to those listed.
In addition to the above-mentioned, Belarus remains subject to targeted economic sanctions too. The country continues to remain subject to restrictions in the trade, technology, financial, energy, and transport sector, among others.
Regarding the involvement of Belarus in Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, the EU has said that it strongly condemns such actions, calling for Belarus to take a step back.
Moreover, the EU has said that it is also determined to address the human rights situation in Belarus and emphasised that it will continue to support the country’s citizens in their request for democracy.
EU has also consistently reiterated its support for democratic elections in Belarus. The EU has called on the Belarus authorities to fully adhere to the principles of democracy, the rule of law, and fundamental freedoms.
It has also called on the authorities in Belarus to act in line with international law and its own commitments, including by stopping the collaboration with Russia in the war of aggression against Ukraine.
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