Denmark is moving to sharply increase penalties for individuals and businesses that violate EU sanctions against Russia, with a new legislative proposal that would raise maximum prison sentences from four months to five years — and up to eight years in serious cases.
The bill, introduced by Denmark’s Ministry of Justice, is currently under review and comes as part of the country’s broader effort to tighten enforcement of sanctions following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
“It is absolutely unacceptable for Danish companies to violate EU sanctions against Russia and Belarus for financial gain,” said Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard in a press statement.
“The government wants to put an end to this, which is why we are introducing a bill that significantly increases penalties for such violations.”
The proposal also reinforces Denmark’s position that sanctions are not just economic tools, but a vital part of its foreign and security policy.
“If someone circumvents sanctions, it has direct consequences for our security,” said Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen.
The bill would allow courts to hand down prison sentences of up to five years for violating EU sanctions, and eight years in aggravated cases — such as repeated offenses, large-scale smuggling, or coordination with foreign entities.
The Danish proposal aligns with parts of EU Directive 2024/1226, which sets common standards across the EU for how sanctions violations should be treated legally.
It includes language ensuring that breaching arms embargoes or aiding sanctioned entities can also result in prison time, helping close loopholes that may have allowed some businesses to sidestep restrictions in the past.
EU Sanctions Continue to Expand
The legislation comes shortly after the European Union adopted its 16th sanctions package against Russia on February 24, marking two years since the invasion began.
The latest package targets:
Russia’s shadow fleet used to bypass oil price caps
Financial institutions linked to the military-industrial complex
Media outlets accused of spreading Russian state propaganda
Bans on specific transport services and energy-related operations
These restrictions aim to squeeze the Russian economy and hinder its ability to fund and sustain the ongoing war in Ukraine.
