Eel exports to Russia not currently sanctioned, says environment minister

Exporting eels to Russia is not currently banned, the Government has said after being challenged over the trade at Westminster.

The legality of sending the fish to a country slapped by an array of sanctions after its brutal invasion of neighbouring Ukraine, was raised in Parliament by Tory peer Lord De Mauley.

The questioning of the commerce involving an endangered species came as US President Donald Trump told Russian President Vladimir Putin to “settle now and stop this ridiculous war” or face further penalties.

The UK has been a staunch supporter of the Kyiv government in the face of Kremlin aggression providing billions of pounds in military, economic and humanitarian aid and imposed a range of sanctions on Moscow.

However, Lord De Mauley has pressed the Government over why this does not extend to the export of glass eels, the juvenile form of the European species.

Responding to a written parliamentary question, environment minister Baroness Hayman of Ullock said: “As an endangered species, the international trade in European eel is regulated through the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (Cites).

“Any exports are subject to rigorous scrutiny, including through assessments of legal acquisition and non-detriment.

“The UK’s approach to these exports is being reviewed by the new Government to ensure legality, sustainability, and alignment with global conservation efforts.”

But she added: “The export of European eel to Russia is not currently sanctioned.”