Brussels on Monday sanctioned three Russian shipping firms and multiple Iranian ports and carriers, accusing them of aiding Tehran’s supply of drones and missiles for Moscow’s war against Ukraine.
Vessels operated by VTS Broker and Arapax, both based in Russia’s Astrakhan region, and MG Flot, based in the republic of Dagestan, were identified as transporting Iranian military-related goods, including drone components, across the Caspian Sea, the EU said.
The bloc also banned transactions with ports “owned, operated or controlled” by sanctioned individuals and entities, specifically targeting Iranian ports Amirabad and Anzali on the Caspian Sea. Exceptions could be made for vessels requiring assistance under circumstances such as maritime safety concerns.
The EU extended sanctions to Iran’s state-run shipping company IRISL and its director, Mohammad Reza Khiabani. These measures build on prior sanctions against Iranian entities accused of supporting Russia’s military efforts.
In September, the EU joined the United States in accusing Tehran of providing short-range ballistic missiles to Russia for its war against Ukraine, a claim Iran denies.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi criticized that sanctions policy on Sunday, calling it unjustified and based on a “non-existent missile pretext.” He warned that such actions could backfire, arguing that “freedom of navigation is a basic principle of the law of the sea” and accusing the EU of selective enforcement.
On Monday, Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Esmaeil Baghaei, said Tehran would decide on its response to the EU’s expanded sanctions.
AFP contributed reporting.
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
