In the official press release, it is stressed that decision pertaining the prolonged economic sanctions was undertaken in the light of the “destabilizing” role the Russian Federation plays within the territory of Ukraine. Period during which the restrictive measures are applied, in line with the conclusions reached in March this year, is related to the term within which the Minsk memorandum conditions are in force. In line with the content of the agreement, the above status is to be valid until December 2015.

Decision related to the sector sanctions against Russia was made in July last year when the pro-Russian separatists shot down the Malaysian airliner over the territory of Ukraine. The restrictive measures that had been implemented earlier on (which, as a rule, remain in force) had not been targeted at specific persons or companies. The subjects that are covered with sanctions include the Almaz-Antey company which manufactures anti-aircraft systems, including the Buk missiles used to shoot down the MH17 airliner.

The sanctions are implemented in the sectors of energy, finances, armament and dual-use goods. The implemented measures have been additionally amplified in September this year, which was related to intensification of the conflict and relevant increase of the involvement of the Russian Armed Forces in the conflict taking place within the territory of Ukraine (including deployment of regular battalion-sized combat groups in Donbas).

After the sanctions were implemented, scope of cooperation of the defence industries of Russia and the West was limited. It was decided, among other sanctions, that the French Mistral vessels deliveries are going to be suspended. Contract, the aim of which was to construct a military training centre in Mulino, with the German Rheinmetall company playing the role of the contractor, was cancelled as well.