Eight non-EU countries decide to join new sanctions against Belarus

Eight non-European Union countries have agreed to align with the latest EU sanctions against Belarus. The decision marks their participation in a package that expands the scope of restrictive measures imposed due to the Minsk administration's support for Russia's war in Ukraine.

According to a statement issued by the EU on August 18, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Norway, and Ukraine will align their national policies with the measures adopted by the EU Council on July 23.

The Union stated that it welcomes the decision of these countries. The new measures further tighten restrictions on goods and technologies that could strengthen Belarus's military, technological, defense, or security capabilities.

The package also introduces additional limitations on the import of certain goods that could provide alternative revenue for Belarus. Furthermore, it was noted that restrictions on Belarus's participation in EU-based crypto-asset businesses have been expanded.

However, the EU announced that certain exceptions will be permitted to ensure that goods and services necessary for maintaining public internet infrastructure can continue to reach Belarus.