The European Parliament is angered by fuel supply for Russian aircraft in Syria through EU waters
Member of European Parliament Marietje Schaake demanded an investigation into the supply of jet fuel to Syria by Russian tankers through EU waters. The politician addressed this request to the high representative for foreign affairs and security policy of the European Union, Federica Mogherini, after this information was circulated by media, Reuters reports.
At least two ships under the Russian flag were delivering fuel to Syria via Cyprus. It was reported that they stopped in Cypriot ports before delivering fuel to the Syrian state.
Schaake referred to the EU Council Regulation 1323/2014, adopted two years ago, which prohibits the supply of jet fuel to Syria from the EU, regardless of whether it was produced in the EU or outside it.
However, the Russian Defense Ministry said that as Russia is not a part of the EU, sanctions on the supply of fuel to Syria cannot apply to the Russian air group operating there.
In turn, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cyprus reported that the competent authorities of the island did not allow Russian tankers carrying fuel for jets to Syria to enter their ports.