Switzerland adopts EU sanctions, targets Russia and Moldova
Switzerland has adopted the European Union's (EU) 18th package of sanctions against the Russian Federation.
More specifically, Bern has extended its list of targeted restrictions, imposing sanctions on seven new individuals and three businesses from the Republic of Moldova. They are accused of participating in Russia-coordinated efforts to influence the country's referendum on joining the EU and the 2024 presidential elections.
According to the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education, and Research (EAER), these individuals and companies face asset freezes, a ban on providing economic resources, and a prohibition on entering and transiting through Swiss territory. The measures were adopted on August 12 and align with the modifications introduced by the EU in its 18th package of sanctions against Russia.
In addition to the sanctions targeting Moldova, Switzerland has added 14 other individuals and 41 firms from Russia and other states to its lists, accusing them of supporting Moscow's war effort against Ukraine.
These include companies that manage vessels from the "shadow fleet" used to transport Russian crude oil above the price cap or for delivering military equipment. Additionally, 105 third-country vessels have been subjected to bans on buying, selling, and providing services, and the price cap for Russian crude oil was lowered to $47.6 per barrel, in line with EU measures.
In the trade sector, 26 new organizations —including some from third countries—have been added to export control lists, accused of involvement in circumventing restrictions on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Switzerland has also adopted sanctions against eight companies in Belarus's arms industry, which face asset freezes and a ban on providing economic resources.
It is worth noting that on July 18, 2025, the EU approved the 18th sanctions package against the Russian Federation, introducing unprecedented measures. These include: a cap on the price of oil, a ban on the Nord Stream pipelines, and restrictions on Chinese banks that assist Moscow in circumventing sanctions.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
