The UK has announced a new package of 31 sanctions against Russia, designed to increase economic pressure ahead of winter. The measures target funding for Russia's war effort, aim to disrupt disinformation networks, and address those allegedly responsible for torturing Ukrainian civilians and deporting Ukrainian children.
Among the new sanctions are measures against LNG shadow fleet vessels, which the UK states are part of Russia's attempt to circumvent existing sanctions and maintain gas export revenues. Eight individuals involved in the arbitrary detention, torture, and ill-treatment of Ukrainian civilians are also targeted. Additionally, seven individuals are being sanctioned for their alleged role in the indoctrination and militarisation of Ukrainian children, including those reportedly deported by Russian authorities.
Minister for Europe Lord Wood of Anfield stated that the UK is targeting both the revenues sustaining Russia's aggression and perpetrators of crimes against Ukrainian civilians. The UK has also extended existing licensing arrangements for LNG on a targeted and time-limited basis to support the energy security of the Republic of Korea and Japan.