Estonia urges EU to ban export of alumina to Russia

Estonia has formally proposed that the European Union introduce an embargo on the export of alumina (aluminum oxide) to Russia. The proposal was made by Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna, who wrote on social media platform X that Russia's defense industry is heavily reliant on aluminum, and aluminum production depends on alumina.

"If we truly intend to raise the price of aggression, we must close this loophole," Tsahkna wrote. He also noted that the main source of funding for Russia's war machine remains energy exports. In his view, the most effective measure to cut off this money flow would be a complete ban on maritime services for Russian energy exports. Although there is currently no consensus among G7 countries on this issue, it should remain a strategic goal for the European Union.

Earlier this week, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha welcomed the Irish authorities' decision to launch an investigation into reports of alumina exports to Russia. Meanwhile, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen presented on June 9 the EU's 21st sanctions package against Russia, which includes, among other measures, an entry ban for former Russian combatants who fought against Ukraine.

The 21st sanctions package now needs to be reviewed and unanimously approved by the EU Council. According to sources from "European Pravda", the package is expected to be adopted by July 15 – the deadline for renewing the price cap on Russian oil.