EU Urges Turkey to Comply with Western Sanctions Against Moscow

The European Union has urged Turkish authorities to change their trade policies towards Russia and comply with the Western sanctions imposed against Moscow. "Turkey's policy of not aligning with EU restrictive measures against Russia is increasingly becoming a cause for concern," said Josep Borrell, the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, in an interview with Funke Group.

Turkey has significantly increased its exports to the Russian Federation and has ramped up its imports of Russian oil. In this context, Borrell emphasized that the EU and Turkey have entered into a customs union, which facilitates the free movement of goods, including dual-use items that can be used for both civilian and military purposes. Ankara should not assist Russia in circumventing Western sanctions, Borrell stressed, reminding that Turkey has candidate status for EU membership.

“We expect compliance among all candidate countries regarding the measures taken, including Turkey,” said the head of European diplomacy, according to DW.

Borrell noted that the expansion of Turkey's and Russia's bilateral economic ties in the backdrop of the war is also a significant cause for concern. The European Union has repeatedly raised its doubts and expectations with Turkish partners and will continue to do so at all levels, Borrell added.