/https://specials-images.forbesimg.com/imageserve/61926747e947424c52834d26/0x0.jpg?cropX1=0&cropX2=3243&cropY1=0&cropY2=1824 "Russia Offers Help As Europe Toughens Sanctions Against Belarus Amid Worsening Border Crisis")
Topline
The European Union stepped up sanctions against Belarus Monday as officials doubled down on accusations President Alexander Lukashenko is driving migrants and refugees to the bloc’s borders in order to undermine it’s security, where thousands are now stranded in freezing conditions as political tensions escalate over the crisis.
The European Union sanctioned Belarus over allegedly pushing migrants towards its borders.
Key Facts
The EU agreed to intensify sanctions against Minsk and “everyone involved” in trafficking migrants to the Belarusian border, officials announced Monday.
The sanctions, which will target individuals and organizations with asset freezes and travel bans, complement existing sanctions imposed after last year’s fraudulent presidential election and crackdown on related protests by President Lukashenko.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the sanctions would also include penalties against airlines deemed to be involved in the crisis, according to Al Jazeera.
Lukashenko, often described as “Europe’s last dictator,” strenuously denies allegations his regime is actively encouraging—even helping—migrants reach its border with Europe in order to destabilize the bloc as payback for sanctions against Belarus.
The Kremlin Monday offered to act as an intermediary between Belarus and the EU in order to resolve the standoff.
Russia is fending off allegations it played a role in fomenting the crisis after Western officials suggested President Vladimir Putin wants to destabilize the region.
What To Watch For
Iraq said it will begin repatriating citizens at the border for those who wish to return. It’s unclear how many citizens are at the border or how many would choose to return if able. A foreign ministry spokesperson reportedly said the government is aware of 571 citizens stuck at the border who have indicated they will return. It’s an offer some, at least, have indicated they will not take up, according to Al Jazeera.
Key Background
Tensions at the border are running high and conditions are growing harsher as temperatures drop. According to the Guardian, between 10,000 and 20,000 people are stuck at the border, where Polish forces have gathered to prevent migrants from crossing. At least eight have died in recent months, according to the Washington Post.
Further Reading
The EU Is Preparing To Sanction Belarus, Europe’s ‘Last Dictatorship’ — Here’s Why (Forbes)
“On the frozen frontiers of Europe with the migrants caught in a lethal game” (The Guardian)
