EU Foreign Policy

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Key Takeaways

  • On July 24, 2025, the European Commission opened infringement procedures against 18 Member States for failing to fully transpose Directive (EU) 2024/1226 by the May 20, 2025 deadline.
  • The Directive harmonizes criminal offences and penalties for violations of EU sanctions, including asset freeze breaches, arms embargo violations, and circumvention schemes.
  • Penalties include prison sentences of up to 5 years for individuals and fines up to 5% of worldwide turnover or EUR 40 million for companies, plus additional restraining measures.

Continue Reading “Lost in Transposition” – Commission Targets 18 Member States Over Sanctions Enforcement Gaps

The United States has taken a historic step by terminating the Syria Sanctions Program, marking the most significant shift in U.S. foreign policy towards Syria since the fall of the Assad regime. In our earlier post, we outlined the initial steps taken by the U.S., EU, and UK to relax longstanding sanctions on Syria. Since then, the U.S. has introduced additional measures aimed at promoting commercial re-engagement, although several restrictions remain in place. Companies interested in doing business with Syria must stay current on evolving export control, sanctions, and compliance requirements.Continue Reading Unpacking the U-Turn: What the Syria Sanctions Repeal Really Means

In a significant shift in international policy, the United States, European Union, and United Kingdom have each taken steps to ease sanctions on Syria, aiming to support the country’s reconstruction and political transition following the fall of the Assad regime.Continue Reading Syria-ous Changes for Middle East Business? The United States, UK, and Europe Relax Sanctions on Syria