EU Reconsiders Sanctions on Aughinish Alumina Exports to Russia Amid Irish Inquiry
The EU Commission is reconsidering sanctions on alumina exports to Russia, specifically from Ireland's Aughinish Alumina, after an Irish inquiry. Estonia has pushed for a ban for over 18 months, concerned the material aids Russia's military. The Irish government awaits the inquiry's findings to determine its next steps.
The European Commission plans to re-examine sanctions targeting alumina exports to Russia, particularly from Ireland's Aughinish Alumina, following an inquiry by the Irish Department of Enterprise. This comes after over 18 months of unsuccessful lobbying by Estonia for an EU-wide ban on such exports, citing concerns that the material ultimately supports Russia's military industry.
Aughinish Alumina, owned by Russian metals giant Rusal and reportedly controlled by sanctioned oligarch Oleg Deripaska, has been exporting significant amounts of alumina to Russia. The Irish investigation, prompted by disclosures in The Irish Times, is expected to be completed within weeks. Taoiseach Micheál Martin stated the government would consider available options in coordination with Brussels upon receiving the report, emphasizing that Ireland has not lobbied against sanctioning alumina.
Senior EU officials anticipate action against the Co Limerick plant if the Irish investigation confirms its controversial Russian supply chain. The potential for new sanctions, which require unanimous approval from all 27 member states, could place Ireland in a difficult position, especially if it coincides with Ireland's Council of the EU presidency. Tánaiste Simon Harris has denied involvement in discussions about nationalizing Aughinish Alumina, a move the company warns could lead to closure and job losses.