Britain announces new package of sanctions against Russia

Britain has announced a new package of sanctions against Russia, aimed at increasing pressure on the Kremlin's military machine, oil and gas revenues and the so-called "shadow fleet", the British Foreign Office said.

According to the agency, the new sanctions were introduced by British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband. The sanctions package includes individuals and legal entities that, according to London's assessment, are supporting Russia's war against Ukraine.

The sanctions affected a total of 19 entities, including:

• Six Russian banks, which, according to the British government, are involved in supporting Russia's military economy;

• Six tankers belonging to the so-called "shadow fleet" and are used to circumvent Western sanctions;

• Four Russian companies that import rare metals – tantalum and niobium – needed for the production of military equipment;

• As well as one individual and several companies.

According to Ed Miliband, the new sanctions confirm the UK’s unwavering support for Ukraine.

“Today’s sanctions clearly show that the UK continues to support Ukraine and pressure those who support the Kremlin’s aggression. Ukraine’s fight is our fight. Those who threaten Ukraine’s freedom and democracy also pose a threat to the security of the UK. That is why we will continue to pressure Russia until a just and lasting peace is established,” Miliband said.

According to the British government, the Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary hosted President Volodymyr Zelensky last week, after which a new package of support for modern unmanned systems for Ukraine was announced.

Defence Secretary John Healy said that London would continue to restrict financial resources for Russia and take action against the “shadow fleet”.

“Our commitment to supporting the Ukrainian people is absolute. That is why we are tightening sanctions to restrict the sources of funding for Putin’s illegal war and to hit his shadow fleet. The UK will continue to take steps to protect national security, the economy and global stability,” Healy said.

According to the British government, sanctions against Russia have been imposed on more than 500 individuals, companies and ships this year alone. In total, the number of people sanctioned by the UK under the Russian sanctions regime has already exceeded 3,400.