As reported by the European Commission’s press service European Commission
The European Commission warned Belgium, Bulgaria, and Slovenia about the risk of referring the case to the Court of Justice of the European Union due to the absence of measures to criminalize violations of EU sanctions. The European Commission’s press service reported on this situation.
“As of today, Belgium, Bulgaria, and Slovenia have still not reported full measures for implementation. Therefore, the European Commission decided to issue Belgium, Bulgaria, and Slovenia a reasoned opinion, and they now have two months to respond and take the necessary measures. Otherwise, the European Commission may decide to refer the case to the Court of Justice of the European Union with a request to impose financial penalties”
– European Commission’s press service
Interim steps and consequences
“Member States had until May 2025 to implement the Directive into their national legislation”
– European Commission
As noted by the department, harmonizing national criminal law in this area will facilitate investigations and enforcement for violations of EU sanctions across all member states.
“In July 2025, the European Commission decided to start infringement procedures by sending formal letters of notice to several Member States for failing to notify full measures for implementing the Directive”
– European Commission
The article also mentions the EU’s stance on economic issues: European Commissioner for Economy Valdis Dombrovskis emphasized the EU’s position in light of calls to ease sanctions due to disruptions to oil supply chains caused by conflicts in the Middle East.
They also mention the views of European leaders on the future regulation of sanctions policy in the international context. The emphasis is that implementing the Directive must remain a priority for every member state.
Європейська комісія закликає Бельгію, Болгарію та Словенію криміналізувати порушення санкцій
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