Russian Rare Earth Supplier Dropped From EU Sanctions List at Estonia's Request
At Estonia's request, one Russian company and one related person have been removed from the EU's upcoming 22nd sanctions package. The company supplies rare earth metals to Estonian processor Silmet.
A Russian supplier of rare earth metals has been taken off the European Union's draft 22nd sanctions package following a request from Estonia. The company provides materials to the Estonian firm Silmet, ERR News reports.
Radio Free Europe journalist Rikard Jozwiak said one company and one individual were removed at Estonia's request, though he did not name either. According to him, Silmet processes materials used in wind turbines and other products sold in the EU, and it is now looking for other suppliers.
Package awaits final approval
EU envoys agreed on 7 October on sanctions targeting 743 individuals and 826 companies linked to Russia's military industry. The package still needs approval from member states' foreign ministers and is expected to take effect within the next few days.
Kerstin Lepik, spokeswoman for Estonia's representation in Brussels, confirmed to ERR that the Russian company was removed at Estonia's request. She said Estonia had asked for one company and one associated person to be struck from a list that includes almost 1,600 individuals and entities.
Strategically important materials
Lepik stressed that Silmet supplies Europe with strategically important raw materials. Electric vehicle and wind turbine manufacturers rely on its products, as do many companies in the electronics, automotive and aviation sectors across the EU.
She said Silmet is actively seeking alternatives to rare earth metals imported from Russia. She added that Estonia will consider including the company in next year's sanctions list.
