EU expands sanctions against Belarus over Lukashenko's 'elections'
Photo: Alexander Lukashenko (Getty Images)
The EU has imposed sanctions on 25 individuals and 7 companies from Belarus due to the "elections" and support for the regime of Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko, according to the press service of the European Council.
"The Council today decided to impose restrictive measures on an additional 25 individuals and 7 entities responsible of undermining democracy and the rule of law in Belarus, as well as contributing to the ongoing internal repression, human rights abuses as well as military cooperation with Russia in support of the war against Ukraine," as the press service states.
The sanctions list includes the Central Election Commission (CEC), its deputy chairperson, secretary, and members who organized the 2025 presidential elections. The head of the largest pro-government party, Oleg Romanov, is also on the list.
Nine judges who issued politically motivated verdicts against protesters and opposition members, as well as representatives from the Presidential Administration, are targeted by the sanctions.
Among the companies affected by the sanctions are Ridotto LLC (online gambling), Belarusian Lotteries, defense industry enterprises (Planar, Precise Electromechanical Plant, JSC Integral), and the agricultural company Tsybulka-Bel, which uses forced labor of prisoners.
It is noted that the EU sanctions now apply to 310 individuals and 46 legal entities from Belarus. These measures include asset freezes, bans on financial transactions, and travel restrictions to EU countries.
"The EU stands with the people of Belarus and unwaveringly supports the Belarusian people’s quest for a free, democratic, sovereign and independent Belarus as part of a peaceful Europe," the statement concludes.
'Elections' in Belarus
On January 26, Belarus held its "presidential elections," marking the seventh such election for Alexander Lukashenko in his political career. He has been in power for over 30 years.
The head of the Central Election Commission (CEC) of Belarus, Igor Karpenko, reported that 86.82% of voters allegedly supported the self-proclaimed president, Alexander Lukashenko, in the so-called "elections."
The European Union reacted to the "elections," calling them fraudulent.
Sanctions against Belarus
Back in June of last year, the European Union imposed a series of sanctions on Belarus. These restrictions had already been in place against Russia.
In particular, the sanctions included a ban on the export of dual-use goods and technologies. Additionally, restrictions on the export of goods that could contribute to increasing Belarus's industrial potential were extended.
