The EUIPO has adopted a number of measures in coordination with the EU institutions.
The EU has recently approved measures in response to the unprovoked and unjustified military aggression carried out by the Russian Federation against Ukraine, as well as to the disinformation and information manipulation actions by the Russian Federation and its associated outlets against the EU and its member states. These measures add to the restrictive measures that have already been progressively put in place since the illegal annexation of Crimea in 2014.
As the situation in Ukraine continues to unfold, we stand firm on the side of democracy and the rule of law, and with the agreement of the European Commission, the EUIPO has adopted a number of measures in the field of intellectual property.
First, we have halted all cooperation actions with Rospatent, the Russian Federal Service for Intellectual Property, and the Eurasian Patent Organization (EAPO).
Second, we have taken measures to provide our fullest support to our Ukrainian customers and to safeguard their IP rights while this situation prevents normal communication. To this end, we have issued a one-month extension of time limits from 24.02.2022 for all parties in proceedings before the Office having their residence or registered office in Ukraine, and will review the need for further extensions and additional measures as we move forward. Thirdly, we are also ensuring that all data regarding parties’ addresses in our registries reflect Ukraine’s internationally recognised borders, correcting erroneous indications where necessary.
Finally, the EUIPO joins the European Union in condemning, in the strongest possible terms, the Russian Federation’s unprovoked and unjustified military aggression against Ukraine, and in demanding that Russia immediately ceases its military actions, unconditionally withdraws all forces and military equipment from the entire territory of Ukraine and fully respects Ukraine’s territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence within its internationally recognised borders.
Source: EUIPO