EU extends arms embargo on Zimbabwe as China, Russia fill gap

Zimbabwe halts raw mineral and lithium exports in sudden policy shift

The European Union has extended its arms embargo on Zimbabwe for another year, keeping in place restrictions that have been applied since 2002 over serious human rights violations. The latest extension means the measures will now remain in effect until February 2027.

The embargo bars the sale, supply, or technical support for military equipment to Zimbabwe. It was first imposed under former president Robert Mugabe, who was accused of curtailing freedoms of expression, association, and assembly. Mugabe stepped down after a military intervention in 2017 and died two years later.

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The EU has gradually eased related sanctions. Asset freezes and travel bans are no longer in place because there are currently no designated individuals or entities. Zimbabwe Defence Industries, the last company on the EU’s sanctions list, was removed last year.

In a statement, the European Council said it remains “constructively engaged” with Zimbabwe and hopes to strengthen bilateral relations, particularly in trade and investment.

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Despite EU and US restrictions, Zimbabwe has increasingly turned to China and Russia for military equipment.

Bloomberg reports that China has supplied over a third of the country’s major weapons imports since 1980, including a donation of 200 million yuan, or $28 million, in 2023 to support security operations and modernise the armed forces. Russia has also provided arms, ammunition, and spare parts in recent years.

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The United States has maintained a tougher stance, placing President Emmerson Mnangagwa on its Global Magnitsky sanctions list in 2024 over alleged abuses following his disputed election victory.

The EU’s latest decision underscores the bloc’s continued caution in engaging with Zimbabwe’s security sector, while highlighting the growing role of alternative suppliers in filling the gap left by Western sanctions.

Faith Omoboye is a foreign affairs correspondent with background in History and International relations. Her work focuses on African politics, diplomacy, and global governance.

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