Estonian PM Evasive on Hansa Shipping's Russia Business

Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal (Reform Party) has responded evasively to questions about the activities of Estonian company Hansa Shipping, whose vessels reportedly carry aluminum oxide from Ireland to Russia. Aluminum oxide is an essential raw material for Russia's military industry.

MP Züleyha Izmailova (Social Democratic Party) asked the prime minister what measures the government has taken or plans to take, whether Estonia knows how many other companies are engaged in similar activities, and whether Estonia supports including an export ban on aluminum oxide in the next sanctions package.

In his response, Michal wrote that participating in supply chains that support the aggressor's war machine is ethically reprehensible. Regarding a possible criminal investigation into Hansa Shipping, he noted that such information can only be released with permission from the prosecutor's office, and neither investigative bodies nor the prosecutor's office have published it.

The prime minister emphasized that the state monitors compliance with the International Sanctions Act, and violations are handled by competent authorities under the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Finance. He added that Estonia has repeatedly proposed including a ban on aluminum oxide exports to Russia in EU sanctions packages, including the 21st package.

Michal stated that existing sanctions have already helped weaken the aggressor's economy and limit its military capabilities, and the government will continue working to make the sanctions regime as effective as possible.