In Berlin, the European Commission has implemented a ban on Russian citizens entering European nations while in possession of Russian-registered vehicles and personal belongings such as smartphones, jewelry, and laptops.
According to reports from global media outlets, the European Commission has confirmed its sanctions against Russia and clarified that the use of vehicles registered in Russia is now considered a prohibited import into European countries under the Customs Code. This restriction applies whether the vehicle is intended for personal or commercial purposes.
During the previous summer, some Russians who were traveling to Germany in their cars encountered rigorous security checks at customs. In early July, German customs authorities affirmed that the import of passenger vehicles from Russia is prohibited as per Article 3i of Regulation 833/2014, which imposes an embargo on Russia. This prohibition extends to the movement of goods, regardless of whether they are for personal or non-commercial use.
This decision has raised concerns among legal experts, as Article 3i prohibits the import or transfer of Russian goods into European countries listed in Annex XXI, which generate significant revenue for Russia.
Russian legal professionals have raised questions about whether the German customs law may result from misinterpretations, failing to distinguish between individuals entering the country with personally used vehicles and those involved in importing them.
