Denmark to Impose Up to Five Years in Prison for Violating EU Sanctions Against Russia

Denmark’s government has introduced a legislative proposal aimed at significantly increasing penalties for violations of EU sanctions against Russia. The bill, currently under review, seeks to impose stricter punishments, including extended prison sentences, for individuals and businesses that circumvent restrictions.

According to Denmark’s Ministry of Justice, the proposed law would raise the maximum prison sentence for violating EU sanctions from four months to five years. In cases of aggravated offenses, penalties could extend to eight years.

“It is absolutely unacceptable for Danish companies to violate EU sanctions against Russia and Belarus for financial gain. The government wants to put an end to this, which is why we are introducing a bill that significantly increases penalties for such violations,” said Danish Minister of Justice Peter Hummelgaard.

The initiative also highlights the role of sanctions as a key tool in Denmark’s foreign and security policy. Minister of Foreign Affairs Lars Løkke Rasmussen emphasized that sanctions are essential for targeting Russia’s economy and limiting its capabilities following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

“If someone circumvents sanctions, it has direct consequences for our security,” Rasmussen stated.

The bill aligns with parts of EU Directive 2024/1226, which defines criminal offenses and penalties for breaching EU sanctions. It also includes provisions to ensure violations of EU arms embargoes can result in prison terms of up to five years, or up to eight years under aggravated circumstances.

Earlier, on February 24, the European Union adopted its 16th sanctions package against Russia, targeting key sectors of its economy. The measures include restrictions on Russia’s shadow fleet, financial institutions, and military-industrial suppliers, as well as bans on specific media outlets, transport operations, and energy-related services.