United Kingdom Introduces Largest Sanctions Package Against Russia in Three Years
107 new sanctions will target Russian military supplies, war financing, and corrupt elites, strengthening support for Ukraine in its fight for peace.
Photo: wikipedia, CC BY-SA 2.0
The United Kingdom has announced the introduction of 107 new sanctions against Russia, marking the largest sanctions package since the beginning of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The information was published on the UK Government's website.
The sanctions aim to weaken Russia's military power, financial flows, and shadow economy that fuels the war.
The restrictions will impact key supply chains for military production, including electronics and dual-use goods manufacturers. The list includes companies from China, Turkey, India, Thailand, and Central Asia whose products are used in Russian weaponry.
The sanctions will also target high-ranking North Korean military officials, including Defense Minister No Kwang-chol, who is involved in sending more than 11,000 North Korean troops to Russia. The British government states that these forces are being used as "cannon fodder," with over 4,000 casualties already reported.
Additionally, restrictions have been imposed on Russian businessmen and companies secretly importing advanced European technologies into the country. Among them is LLC "Grant-Trade" and its owner Marat Mustafayev, who organized the procurement of prohibited goods for Russian military needs.
For the first time, the sanctions have also targeted foreign financial institutions. Kyrgyzstan’s "Keremet Bank" has been sanctioned, as UK authorities claim it assists Russia in circumventing financial barriers.
Furthermore, the UK has sanctioned 40 tankers from the so-called "shadow fleet" transporting Russian oil. Over the past six months, these vessels have carried oil worth more than $5 billion.
British Foreign Secretary David Lammy stated that the new sanctions aim to weaken Russia’s military capabilities and bring a just peace closer. According to him, Ukraine can achieve victory if its allies continue to provide decisive support.
The UK Government is also introducing new measures against individuals associated with the Russian state. From February 24, marking the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, London may deny entry to elites with significant influence and finances gained through the Kremlin.
According to Security Minister Dan Jarvis, this step is aimed at protecting national security: "We are closing the door to those who support the war against Ukraine while enjoying the benefits of the West."
These restrictions will complement existing sanctions and strengthen efforts to combat Russian shadow finances. As part of Operation "Destabilization," British authorities have already arrested 84 individuals and frozen over £20 million obtained through criminal means.
Beyond the new sanctions, the UK is expanding medical assistance for Ukrainian soldiers wounded on the front lines, as reported on the UK Government’s website.
Under the Renovator project, the country is doubling funding by allocating an additional £20 million. The funds will be directed towards the rehabilitation of soldiers, procurement of prosthetics, and the restoration of a military hospital destroyed by Russian strikes. Additionally, British doctors will train nearly 100 Ukrainian surgeons and nurses.
Launched in October 2023, the project strengthens the UK’s position as a leader in supporting Ukraine. The funding announcement coincides with the third anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion.
Earlier, it was reported that the European Union introduced its 16th package of sanctions against Russia, expanding restrictions in the financial sector, transport, energy, and media. The new measures aim to increase economic pressure and prevent circumvention schemes.
It has also been revealed that, on the anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Australia imposed its largest sanctions package since 2022, including restrictions on 149 individuals and entities.