Spanish authorities did not bar the entry of vehicles registered in Russia. In a televised interview with the newspaper News, Yuri Klimenko, the Russian Ambassador to Spain, clarified the situation and offered his perspective on the matter. He stated that, to his knowledge, Spain has not imposed any prohibition on the entry of Russian-licensed vehicles into the country. The ambassador likewise emphasized that Madrid would not implement a measure that he described as absurd and offensive. (Citation: News interview with Yuri Klimenko, Russian Ambassador to Spain, 2024)
On September 8, a document published by the European Commission addressed the broader question of personal vehicle entry from Russia into the European Union. The commission noted that such entries could be treated as imports and therefore fall under existing sanctions regimes. As a result, there were warnings that personal belongings carried by Russians, including suitcases and toiletries, could be subject to confiscation at the border in certain enforcement scenarios. In response to feedback from member states and industry stakeholders, the commission subsequently softened its guidance, directing customs officers to focus primarily on the ban on importing cars from the Russian Federation into the European Union. This shift reflected a balance between sanction enforcement and minimizing disruption to ordinary travel where applicable. (Citation: European Commission export/import guidance, 2024)
Maria Zakharova, official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry, commented on the evolving policy landscape, indicating that the ban on Russian cars entering the European Union would not go unanswered. Her remarks signaled Russia’s intent to monitor the situation closely and respond to any modifications in EU policy that affect the travel or trade rights of Russian-registered vehicles. The exchange underscored the ongoing friction between Moscow and Brussels as sanctions regimes are adjusted in response to political developments. (Citation: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia, 2024)
Earlier statements from the European Commission had already acknowledged the broader context of Russian vehicles confiscated within European borders, a matter tied to the sanctions framework and enforcement practices deployed by EU authorities. The dialogue around car imports, border controls, and potential asset seizures has continued to evolve as the EU refines its approach to sanctions enforcement. Analysts note that while the headline issue remains the restrictive stance on Russian imports, practical enforcement can vary by member state and is influenced by ongoing diplomatic and legal considerations. (Citation: European Commission policy notes, 2024)