EU expands list of European goods prohibited for export to Russia

BRUSSELS. Dec 18 (Interfax) - The European Union's 12th package of sanctions against Russia extends the list of exports subject to the EU's restrictive measures, the Council said on Monday.

The list contains "restricted items that could contribute to the technological enhancement of Russia's defense and security sector," which additionally includes chemicals, lithium batteries, thermostats, DC motors and servomotors for unmanned aerial vehicles, machinery and parts, the statement said.

At the same time, the EU has imposed additional restrictions on the import of goods that "generate significant revenues for Russia," such as cast iron and pig iron, copper wires, aluminum wires, foil, tubes and pipes for a total value of 2.2 billion euros per year.

The EU has also banned the import of liquefied propane with a 12-month phase-in period.

The Council has added 29 new Russian organizations to the list. "They will be subject to tighter export restrictions concerning dual use goods and technologies, as well as goods and technology, which might contribute to the technological enhancement of Russia's defense and security sector," it said.

"Some of these 29 entities belong to third countries involved in the circumvention of trade restrictions, or are Russian entities involved in the development, production and supply of electronic components for Russia's military and industrial complex," the Council said.

The Council made some exceptions to the restrictions on bringing personal items such as personal hygiene items or clothes on travelers or in their luggage, and for vehicles with diplomatic number plates entering the EU.

"Additionally, in order to facilitate the entry into the Union of EU citizens living in Russia, member states can authorize the entry of their cars provided that the cars are not for sale and are driven for strictly personal use," the statement said.