EU chief diplomat condemns Iran's transfer of ballistic missiles to Russia and announces new sanctions on behalf of EU

On behalf of the European Union, Josep Borrell, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, has condemned the delivery of Iranian-made ballistic missiles to Russia and announced new sanctions against those involved.

Borrell noted that the European Union's position on Iran's participation in Russia's war has always been clear, and now the European Union "will respond swiftly and in coordination with international partners".

"Including with new and significant restrictive measures against Iran, including the designation of individuals and entities involved with Iran's ballistic missile and drone programmes, and in this regard is considering restrictive measures in Iran’s aviation sector as well," Borrell said.

He called the transfer of Iranian missiles a direct threat to European security, which is a significant material escalation after the delivery of Iranian UAVs and ammunition.

"It comes in the midst of Russia’s most recent attacks against Ukraine, including with ballistic missiles and drones, which prove its clear determination to continue its brutal war of aggression against Ukraine and its people, notably targeting critical energy infrastructure, trying to cause the highest possible loss of civilian life and inflict large-scale devastation.

Iranian ballistic missiles could now be used to cause further suffering and destruction in Ukraine," Borrell said.

On 12 September, it became known that Borrell had submitted a proposal to member states to impose sanctions on Iran over its supply of ballistic missiles to Russia.

The UK had also announced its own package of sanctions against Iran and Russia. Later, the US Treasury Department had also announced new sanctions against Iran.