On the 6th of May 2024 the "Collective Action - Brussels" organized a talk by Ilya Shumanov from Transparency International Russia who initiated a “Arctida” project. This initiative delves into the politically complex and resource-rich Arctic region, where issues of energy, ecology, indigenous rights, and international sanctions converge. The Arctic is home to 13% of the world's undiscovered oil reserves and 30% of its gas, making it a focal point not only for environmental and economic interests but also for potential military tensions between Russia and NATO.
In the event at the "Collective Action - Brussels" Ilya Shumanov highlighted the ongoing involvement of EU companies in supplying equipment for Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) extraction, which violates the EU ban aimed at restricting Russia’s LNG production capabilities and continues to support Russia's military budget even in 2023 and 2024. According to an investigation by "Arсtida" and the Moscow Times, since February 24, 2022, equipment worth over €630 million has been delivered to the "Arctic LNG-2" project through China, the UAE, and directly from the EU. Italy’s Nuovo Pignone and Germany’s Siemens were key suppliers, both continuing shipments throughout 2023. France’s Optaperiph also contributed equipment.
“Sanctions should be imposed only if the EU establishes an effective mechanism to monitor their enforcement, particularly concerning European companies”
Ilya Shumanov
