EU to propose ban on import of Russian aluminum in new sanctions package

(Patria) - The European Commission intends to propose a ban on the import of Russian primary aluminum in its 16th package of sanctions against Russia due to the invasion of Ukraine, EU diplomats said yesterday.

EU member states hope to adopt the 16th sanctions package in February, on the third anniversary of the war.

The European Commission held informal meetings with EU member states yesterday to discuss the details of the upcoming package, sources said, reports RSE.

One source added that the ban on the import of Russian aluminum will be introduced gradually.

Ten EU member states proposed further sanctions on trade with Russia in a letter late last year, including on products from its metals industry, such as aluminum.

So far, the EU has introduced bans on Russian aluminum products, including wire, pipes, and foil.

The US and the UK banned the import of metals produced in Russia in 2024, but the EU refused to follow these measures due to opposition from certain member states.