Ukraine's Minister of Foreign Affairs Andrii Sybiha stated that European production and supply chains must not directly or indirectly contribute to supporting the Russian war machine, and called for strengthened export controls on alumina to prevent it from reaching Russia. Sybiha wrote this on X, UNN reports.
No aluminum for the Russian war machine. Recent investigations into alumina exports raise serious concerns about the possibility of European-produced materials entering supply chains linked to the Russian military-industrial complex,
He noted that aluminum is a critical component for the production of Russian missiles, drones, military aircraft, and other types of weaponry used daily against Ukraine and its people.
We welcome the decision of the Irish authorities to launch a formal investigation and expect it to be conducted promptly, independently, and transparently. European production and supply chains must not directly or indirectly contribute to supporting the Russian war machine. Instead, Russia must be deprived of access to any critical resources and materials. Previous EU restrictions on cellulose and chromium have already proven their effectiveness. Now is the time to apply the same approach to alumina,
The Minister emphasized that Ukraine will continue to work with Ireland, EU institutions, and international partners to strengthen sanctions pressure on Moscow and close the loopholes that allow the Russian defense industry to continue its operations.
As a reminder
The Aughinish Alumina plant operates in Ireland; it is owned by the Russian company Rusal and legally exports alumina to the aggressor country.