Veldkamp urges tougher sanctions against Russia as EU adopts 15th sanctions package

On Monday, Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp called for stronger sanctions against Russia as the European Union (EU) adopted its 15th sanctions package. “The sanctions are critical to cutting off Russia’s capacity to fund its war in Ukraine,” Veldkamp said.

The new EU sanctions package includes measures targeting 84 individuals and organizations, including Russian military officers accused of bombing the Okhmadyt children's hospital in Kyiv and abducting Ukrainian children. Companies and entities supplying critical military components, including Chinese firms delivering drone parts and microelectronics to Russia, are also sanctioned.

The Netherlands also supported new sanctions against 52 vessels in Russia’s so-called shadow fleet, used to bypass the oil price cap and transport stolen Ukrainian grain. The ships will now be barred from accessing EU ports and services. “These measures hit Russia where it hurts—its ability to fund aggression,” Veldkamp added.

Dutch authorities are taking additional steps to combat sanctions evasion. Veldkamp called for vigilance and urged individuals with information on violations to report them through established channels, including the EU’s whistleblower tool and Dutch investigative services.

Veldkamp also addressed the ongoing situation in Syria, rejecting the notion of easing sanctions. He stated that the Netherlands would only support any relief measures if significant conditions were met, including the closure of Russia’s military base in Syria. "We want the Russians out," he said.

The Dutch minister pointed to the need for an inclusive political transition in Syria, highlighting the rights of minorities such as Christians and Kurds. “These communities remain under threat, and we must ensure their voices are included in Syria’s future,” Veldkamp said.

In Georgia, the Dutch government has been vocal in its support for pro-European demonstrators facing government repression. Veldkamp called for EU sanctions targeting Georgian officials responsible for the crackdown on activists. “The repression of those fighting for a European future cannot go unanswered,” he said.

The Netherlands has already taken direct steps to aid freedom fighters in Georgia. Dutch assistance includes providing protective equipment for journalists, such as gas masks, and legal support for protesters detained during anti-government demonstrations. "We’re stepping up our support because we believe in their cause," Veldkamp said.

While acknowledging resistance from some EU members, Veldkamp expressed cautious optimism about progress in sanctions discussions. He proposed specific measures, such as visa restrictions targeting Georgian officials linked to the suppression of protests. "The EU must show it stands for democracy and human rights," he added.

Veldkamp highlighted the broader impact of EU sanctions, which have already frozen 300 billion euros in Russian Central Bank assets and cost Russia 90 billion euros in lost exports to the EU. “These are not just numbers—they represent real pressure on the Kremlin’s ability to fund its war,” Veldkamp added.