EU draft sanctions omit ban on Aughinish Alumina exports to Russia

In the latest EU sanctions draft, no measure blocks Aughinish Alumina’s export of alumina to Russia, even though the plant supplies a significant share of Russian aluminium smelters. Estonia has formally asked the commission to include such a restriction, arguing that the material supports Moscow’s war effort. The commission has debated a phased quota that would taper shipments rather than impose an outright ban, aiming to give the Limerick-area facility time to find alternative markets.

Senior diplomats from all EU members will discuss the proposal in confidential “confessionals” before governments negotiate the final package. While Poland may back the move, countries with domestic aluminium sectors, like France, could oppose it. The outcome will affect both the EU’s pressure on Russia and jobs at the Irish plant.