Russian and Belarusian freight truck can no longer enter the European Union to transport goods in either direction from Saturday 9 April and any trucks are already in the EU must return by April 16 at the latest, under the new round of sanctions against Russia.
"Russia is waging a cruel and ruthless war, not only against Ukraine's brave troops, but also against its civilian population. It is important to sustain utmost pressure on Putin and the Russian government at this critical point," European Commission President von der Leyen said in a statement.
The transport restrictions include:
- A full ban on Russian and Belarusian freight road operators working in the EU. Certain exemptions will cover essentials, such as agricultural and food products, humanitarian aid as well as energy.
- An entry ban on Russian-flagged vessels to EU ports. Exemptions apply for medical, food, energy, and humanitarian purposes, amongst others.
However, member states can grant certain exceptions for the purchase, transport of import of natural gas and petroleum, titanium, aluminum, copper, nickel, palladium and iron ore.
