Over 500 new sanctions on Russia

The U.S. has announced a new package of sanctions to be imposed on Russia. In a statement released by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, it was stated that more than 500 new sanctions covering financial and military institutions would be applied to Russia due to the invasion of Ukraine and the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny. 

The sanctions, which also include measures against officials involved in Navalny's imprisonment, encompass Russia's card payment system, Mir, and approximately 100 firms and individuals subject to export restrictions. Furthermore, the U.S. sanctions will also apply to entities linked to companies that develop Russia's future energy production, cooperate with Iran on unmanned aerial vehicles, and businesses that supply materials to the Russian military.

In his statement, U.S. President Joe Biden said, "The new sanctions will ensure that Russian President Vladimir Putin pays an even heavier price for his aggression abroad and his repression at home. If Putin does not pay the price for his death and destruction, he will continue."

With the latest package announced by the U.S., the number of sanctioned entities has exceeded 4,000.

13TH SANCTIONS PACKAGE ALSO ANNOUNCED

Josep Borrell, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, also announced a sanctions package including 200 companies and individuals accused of helping Russia procure weapons and being involved in the abduction of Ukrainian children. Borrell stated, "We remain determined to help Ukraine win its fight for self-defense."

Among those to be sanctioned are 10 Russian companies and individuals who facilitated the shipment of North Korean weapons to Russia, including North Korea's defense minister. The EU has sanctioned more than 2,000 individuals since the start of the war.