EU Considers Sanctions Mechanism That Could Affect Kazakhstan — Bloomberg

EU authorities are discussing possible “instruments against sanctions circumvention” that could extend to Kazakhstan as part of the bloc’s next package of economic measures against Russia, Orda.kz reports.

According to Bloomberg, officials are weighing indirect restrictions that could affect Kazakhstan for the first time since the start of the war in Ukraine. Sources said the country could be restricted from importing certain machinery and equipment that trade statistics show is still being re-exported to Russia in large volumes, goods allegedly used in weapons production.

So far, only Kazakhstan-registered companies have appeared on EU sanctions lists. Bloomberg noted that the idea is still only one of several options under review, and the final 19th sanctions package may not include it. Any such step, sources cautioned, would require strong evidence and unanimous approval from EU member states.

In parallel, the EU is preparing broader measures against “half a dozen Russian banks and energy companies,” as well as payment and credit card systems, crypto exchanges, and major oil firms.

Proposals also include bans on exports of specific goods and chemicals and tighter controls on firms in third countries, particularly in China.

Original Author: Nikita Drobny