EU Joins Western Condemnation Of Missiles Supplies To Russia

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell has released a statementregarding accusations that Iran has supplied ballistic missiles to Russia for use in its invasion of Ukraine. Borrell says the EU "strongly condemns" the transfer, calling it "a direct threat to European security and [it] represents a substantive material escalation [in the conflict]."

• Borrell: The EU "has repeatedly strongly cautioned Iran against transfers", adding that the Union "will respond swiftly and in coordination with international partners".
• Indicating that the EU could mirror action by the US and E3 (France, Germany UK), Borrell says "This response is bound to include new and significant restrictive measures against Iran, the designation of individuals and entities involved with Iran's ballistic missile and drone programmes", and that the EU is also considering "restrictive measures in Iran's aviation sector".
• The statement comes several days after similar comments from the US and E3 that were coupled with immediate sanctions (see 'IRAN-West Imposes Sanctions Over Russian Missile Supply', 10 Sep 1659BST).
• The 'swiftness' of EU actions may be in some doubt, given that the next Foreign Affairs Council meeting, at which such decisions would usually be taken, is not scheduled until 14 October.