The Ukrainian government has taken a step towards restricting aviation transit to Russia and Belarus through the territory of the European Union. Kiev’s proposal aims to prevent Russian businessmen and tourists from using the European skies for their needs.
Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal made a statement during a televised marathon, highlighting that such a move intends to curb Russian influence on the European continent:
“Our goal is to prevent Russian businesses and tourists from conveniently using the EU airspace. We have discussed with our partners the possibility of restricting transit for any flights to and from Russia.”
According to the Prime Minister, this move will create logistical difficulties for Moscow and increase transportation costs, which will be uncomfortable for Russians.
It is worth noting that the Russian Federation has significant access to advanced technologies, including those under sanctions, as they come through the so-called “parallel import,” where high-tech materials are imported by citizens of the aggressor country in small batches. Closing aviation transit could serve as an obstacle to this type of trade and limit the movement of Russian businesses.
It is important to acknowledge that this initiative creates new challenges and prospects for a faster end to the conflict, and it may also influence the further development of healthy international relations.