The European Union has presented the 19th sanctions package against Belarus. This is a response to the fact that the Lukashenka regime continues to support the Russian military aggression against Ukraine - including by providing territory, resources and infrastructure.
Who has been sanctioned
The EU focused on those who ensure the economic sustainability of the regime. The list includes:
- Ilya Ikan - Head of the State Concern Belneftekhim«
- Yury Pradko - General Director of Horizont Holding Company«
The restrictions also extended to related companies, including:
- CJSC Holographic Industry«
- Horizon Digital Television Institute«
- Horizon Holding«
According to the EU, these structures strengthen the industrial and technological capabilities of the regime.
A blow to the banking sector
Subsidiaries of Russian banks operating in Belarus have fallen under the sanctions:
- «Alfa Bank»
- Belgazprombank«
- «BelVEB»
- «Sberbank».»
- «VTB Belarus»
This complicates financial transactions, international transfers and access to foreign capital markets.
Financial and digital constraints
Now:
❌ Belarusian companies are banned from accessing crypto services in the EU.
❌ Belarusian citizens will not be able to hold executive positions in European companies related to cryptoassets and fintech.
❌ Restricted access to electronic payment platforms and digital wallets.
Technological barriers
The EU has significantly expanded the list of goods and services banned for export to Belarus:
- Production management systems
- Software for industry
- Banking platforms
- Artificial intelligence
- Quantum technologies
- High-performance computing
- Commercial satellite surveillance systems
This will slow down the development of Belarusian enterprises, especially in high-tech sectors.
Restrictions on export of goods
It is prohibited to supply Belarus with products that would enhance its military or industrial capabilities:
- metals and alloys
- rubber and tires
- electronic components
- optics
- transportation and vessels
- building materials
A blow to foreign exchange earnings
The EU imposes a complete ban on imports of acyclic hydrocarbons - chemical compounds related to the oil and gas industry. This is one of the important sources of currency for the Belarusan budget.
What's behind it
This package shows that sanctions are becoming:
✔ more targeted,
✔ more profound,
✔ aimed at limiting economic mechanisms to support the regime.
The EU clearly demonstrates: the pressure will not subside as long as Belarus remains complicit in the war.
Long Live Belarus!
