EU EXTENDS ROAD AGREEMENT WITH UKRAINE
On 25 September, the European Union has extended its road transport agreement with Ukraine until 31 March 2027, ensuring continued seamless freight connectivity between the two regions. The agreement allows Ukrainian hauliers to operate within the EU under simplified conditions, supporting trade resilience and economic recovery amid ongoing wartime challenges. This extension follows a similar agreement with Moldova, signed earlier in September, which also aims to strengthen transport links and facilitate cross-border freight movements while maintaining fair competition and safety standards.
Both agreements align with the EU’s broader Solidarity Lanes initiative, which has been instrumental in sustaining Ukraine’s trade since Russia’s full-scale invasion. According to the latest figures released on 24 September, the Solidarity Lanes have enabled over 41 million tonnes of Ukrainian exports via road, rail, and inland waterways since 2022. Key commodities such as grain and iron ore continue to flow through these corridors, with the EU providing logistical and financial support to optimise routes and mitigate bottlenecks.
In addition, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen recently announced plans for a new package of sanctions targeting Russian oil and gas, aiming to tighten restrictions on exports, financing, and technology transfers. The proposed measures seek to further reduce Russia’s revenue from energy sales to weaken its economic and military capabilities, while closing loopholes that have allowed circumvention through third countries.
Source: European Commission