EU alumina exports to Russia come under fresh scrutiny from Belarus opposition leader

After Estonia’s call for Aughinish Alumina export sanctions on Russia, Belarus has joined the discussion with the European Union (EU). Exiled Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya has urged the EU to halt alumina exports to Russia, arguing that the materials support industrial and military production. 

Speaking at the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), Tsikhanouskaya appreciated the investigation undertaken by The Irish Times and the Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project, claiming that alumina produced at the Aughinish Alumina refinery in Co Limerick, Ireland, may have entered Russian supply chains connected to military applications.

She stated that the EU should continue closing sanction loopholes that could provide economic or industrial support to Russia.

"The European Union wants to close all loopholes, and they want to deprive this regime of possible resources," she said, emphasising that the supply of raw materials feeding into Russian military development should be curbed.

Tsikhanouskaya added that Europe should prioritise security and democratic values over commercial interests as the conflict continues.

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What is Belarus' stance in the conflict?

The opposition leader has been living in exile in Lithuania since the 2020 Belarusian presidential election. She argued that President Alexander Lukashenko should face accountability for allowing Russia's military campaign into Belarusian territory for the conflict.

Tsikhanouskaya warned that Belarus could again provide infrastructure and logistical support should the conflict escalate further. However, she suggested public sentiment within Belarus remains strongly opposed to direct involvement in the conflict. 

Democracy, sanctions, and EU support

According to Tsikhanouskaya, the outcome of the conflict has great implications for Belarus as well as the other neighbouring nations, calling for greater international attention to Belarus' future role within Europe's security framework.

Tsikhanouskaya expressed confidence that the European Union would maintain its sanctions policy despite attempts by Minsk to secure concessions.

"I'm sure Europe will stay strong and principled in their position," she said, adding that a firm European stance would help support democratic reforms in Belarus.

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The issue has been active since March, and, since the submission of the investigation report, the EU has been facing an intensified push to halt Aughinish Alumina exports to Russia.

The latest update follows Ireland’s Minister of State, Seán Canney, extending his support for potential EU sanctions, provided the ongoing investigation proves that the Russia-bound alumina shipments are being used for military purposes.