Peter Cleere (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

132. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the discussions he had with EU counterparts with regard to Russia circumventing international and EU sanctions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57005/25]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Ireland has consistently supported robust sanctions against Russia in response to its unprovoked and illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

The scale and speed of the sanctions adopted by the EU in response to Russia’s brutal aggression has been unprecedented. These measures are having an impact, making it harder for Russia to access battlefield goods and generate revenue to pay for its illegal war.

A broad range of sectoral sanctions have been put in place, including measures targeting Russia’s military, technology, transport and energy sectors. In addition, over 2,500 individuals and entities are now subject to travel bans and asset freeze measures.

Measures have also been introduced to combat circumvention of sanctions, including a requirement for a “no Russia” clause in export contracts and enhanced due diligence among EU subsidiaries in third countries.

In addition, the EU Sanctions Envoy, David O’Sullivan, is addressing this issue in his regular visits and high-level discussions with third countries.

Recent sanctions packages have also included a specific focus on measures to target the Shadow Fleet to combat circumvention of the oil price cap and reduce Russia’s access to energy revenues.

I welcomed the adoption of the 18th package of sanctions in July and support the adoption of the 19th package as soon as possible.

We will continue to work closely with EU partners to support further sanctions measures that can exert maximum pressure on Russia to end its illegal war of aggression.