Switzerland extends sanctions on Russia in line with EU's 16th sanction package

MINSK/PARIS. May 15 (Interfax) - Switzerland has joined all measures of the 16th package of sanctions against Russia, the Swiss Federal Council said in a statement.

"At its meeting on May 14, 2025, the Federal Council decided to adopt the remaining measures of the EU's 16th package of sanctions against Russia that are relevant to Switzerland. This increases the impact of the EU measures," it said.

The new measures take effect in Switzerland as of May 15, it said.

"The [Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research] EAER applied sanctions in its powers to a further 48 individuals, 35 entities and 74 vessels," it said.

"Export restrictions on dual-use goods and goods that contribute to military and technological enhancement are being tightened. This includes a ban on exporting chromium ores to Russia, as they may be used for military purposes. The list of goods that benefit Russian industry is also being expanded, for example to include chemicals. There is now also a ban on the purchase and import of Russian primary aluminum," it said.

The Federal Council also extended the export ban on software to the energy sector; "it is now prohibited to sell oil and gas exploration software to Russia and to provide goods and services for the completion of Russian crude oil projects," it said.

The Federal Council also extended certain measures to Crimea, Sevastopol, and "other Ukrainian territories that are not currently under Ukrainian government control."

The council banned Swiss companies from conducting business with a number of Russian harbors and airports that might play a role in transporting military goods.

"The Federal Council has decided to extend the ban on services. It is no longer permitted to provide construction services that benefit the Russian government or Russian businesses," it said.

"The existing air traffic ban is being extended. New legislation will designate certain air carriers from third countries that operate domestic flights in Russia or deliver air cargo to sanctioned Russian airlines," it said.

"The Federal Council has amended legislation to allow Swiss businesses to claim damages against Russian contractual partners before the Swiss courts, thereby increasing their legal protection. Their legal protection is also strengthened with regard to the designated territories. Furthermore, the Federal Council is introducing a forum-necessitatis rule, according to which, although Switzerland would not normally be the place of jurisdiction, a claim for damages may in exceptional circumstances be brought before the Swiss courts provided that the case has a sufficient connection to Switzerland," it said.

The EU adopted the 16th sanction package on Russia on February 24, 2025.