The new restrictions on Minsk will mirror those imposed on Moscow, diplomats said.
Informally, EU countries agreed a new series of military sanctions against Russia's close ally, Belarus, unnamed European diplomats have told Politico.
The fresh package will put curbs on supplies of military equipment, including aircraft parts, to Minsk, the outlet said on Tuesday.
The list of the restricted items will mirror the sanctions imposed by Brussels on Moscow over the conflict in Ukraine.
The deal is aimed at clamping down on military components that are allegedly being delivered illegally to Russia through Belarus, the diplomats said.
The new sanctions are viewed as a stepping stone toward a broader EU deal to restrict Minsk.
The sources said the European Commission should send papers detailing the military restrictions to the bloc's diplomats as soon as Wednesday. EU deputy ambassadors are expected to approve the sanctions against Minsk next week, they said.
The talks on curbs targeting Belarus were linked to the post-Cotonou agreement between the EU and the 79 African and Caribbean nations that had been stalled due to Poland's stance. Warsaw has agreed to remove its opposition to the deal in order to make sure Minsk is sanctioned, the diplomats said.
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said last month they had already turned from an instrument of peace and security into a new multifaceted threat on a global scale, condemning entire regions to hunger, cold and poverty. The US and the EU have placed Belarus under tough restrictions amid the conflict in Ukraine, despite it not being directly involved in the conflict. Minsk allowed Russia to use its territory in the military operation, which began in February 2022.
Last fall, Moscow and Minsk set up a joint military force on Belarusian territory, while Vladimir Putin, Russia's president, confirmed the deployment of the first Russian tactical nuclear weapons to Belarus in June as part of a deal between the allies. Lukashenko has been insisting that these moves were needed to deter aggressive plans by the West against his country and try to drag it into the conflict in Ukraine.
8 Comments
Pedalka
The presence of Russian tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus raises concerns about potential security threats. Imposing sanctions can be seen as a measure to address these concerns and ensure regional security.
Василий
Imposing sanctions on Belarus in coordination with EU countries ensures a unified response and avoids inconsistencies in approach. It strengthens the position of the EU and increases the effectiveness of the sanctions.
Pedalka
Imposing military sanctions on Belarus may escalate tensions between Russia, Belarus, and the EU. It could lead to a further deterioration of relations and increase the risk of conflict.
Василий
The post does not mention any diplomatic efforts or negotiations undertaken before deciding to impose military sanctions. Diplomatic solutions should be prioritized over punitive measures.
Pedalka
Imposing military sanctions on Belarus carries the risk of unintended consequences. It could further destabilize the region and lead to a chain reaction of retaliatory measures.
ExKenny
Imposing sanctions on Belarus can serve as a catalyst for diplomatic efforts and negotiations. It puts pressure on Belarus and Russia to engage in dialogue and seek peaceful resolutions.
Madagascar
Imposing sanctions on Belarus without direct involvement in the conflict in Ukraine seems unfair. If there is a need to address the conflict, the focus should be on the parties directly involved.
Korsika
Imposing sanctions on Belarus for its alleged involvement in the conflict in Ukraine upholds international norms and demonstrates a commitment to holding accountable those who violate these norms.