EU Targets Central Asian Entities Supporting Russia’s Military Efforts

On the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the European Union (EU) adopted its 16th package of economic and individual sanctions. The new package focuses on vital sectors of the Russian economy, further weakening its capacity to sustain the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. A significant portion of these measures targets entities and individuals in Central Asia, including Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, that support Russia’s military and industrial complex.

Entities supporting Russia’s military in Central Asia

The EU’s 16th sanctions package includes 53 new listings, consisting of 48 individuals and 35 entities, primarily focused on those undermining Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. Among these, a third of the entities are based in Central Asia, including Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. These organizations are involved in activities such as circumventing trade restrictions or procuring critical components for Russia’s military operations, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and missile systems.

«The sanctions target those facilitating Russia’s war efforts. These measures aim to deprive the Kremlin of resources and ensure that Russia’s actions are met with accountability,» said Kaja Kallas, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.

The sanctions also extend to the maritime sector, targeting vessels operating in Putin’s shadow fleet, which are responsible for circumventing oil price caps and transporting military equipment, including stolen Ukrainian grain.

EU’s efforts to restrict trade and technology flow

The EU’s latest sanctions package further restricts the export of dual-use goods and technologies that could contribute to Russia’s defense sector. Additionally, 53 entities involved in supporting Russia’s military and industrial complex will face tighter export controls on sensitive items. This includes technologies related to military systems, such as chemical precursors and CNC machine software, as well as the controllers used for UAVs, which are pivotal in Russia’s military operations.

Countries like Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, along with others in Central Asia, are increasingly under scrutiny for their role in these supply chains. The sanctions aim to sever these ties and prevent further facilitation of Russia’s military activities.