International civil society groups are calling on the European Union to expand sanctions on Kyrgyzstan, arguing that the country remains a key transit hub for goods ultimately used by Russia’s military industry, as reported by OCCRP.
In a letter to the EU Council, organizations including the State Capture Accountability Project (SCAP) and Freedom for Eurasia (FFE) say the bloc’s gradual approach to sanctions has failed to stop sensitive technologies from reaching Russia. They are urging a broader ban on high-tech exports with little domestic use in Kyrgyzstan.
The appeal follows the EU’s April 23 decision to restrict exports of certain dual-use goods, including CNC machinery and radio equipment, over concerns they are being re-exported for weapons production in Russia.
SCAP cites trade data showing a sharp rise in EU exports to Kyrgyzstan in 2025, including electronics, turbine components, and laser technologies allegedly linked to Russia’s defense sector.
The groups warn that as long as this trade route remains open, it continues to support Russia’s military operations in Ukraine.
The EU has not yet responded to the new appeal. EU Sanctions Envoy David O’Sullivan’s office declined to comment.
Kyrgyzstan’s foreign ministry rejected the criticism, saying EU measures ignore its position and harm bilateral trust. Officials insist the country complies with international requirements and provides full documentation on trade flows.
Western governments have already imposed several rounds of sanctions on Kyrgyz firms and financial institutions over suspected re-export of dual-use goods to Russia, including actions by the US, UK, and EU.
Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov has denied the allegations, accusing NGOs of spreading misinformation and warning that sanctions based on unverified claims amount to interference in the country’s internal affairs.
