The Canadian government announced a major escalation in its economic sanctions against Russia on June 17, imposing unprecedented restrictions on 77 individuals and 39 entities under the Special Economic Measures (Russia) Regulations. The move marks one of Canada’s most significant sanctions announcements since Russia began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Canada is also implementing new trade restrictions, listing almost 1,000 new items for export to Russia, including goods related to the production of chemical and biological weapons, industrial goods, and advanced sensitive technologies with dual-use applications. New import restrictions will apply to coal, metals, and a range of other goods that generate significant revenue for Russia through exports overseas.
The sanctions also target senior government officials, members of President Putin’s inner circle, oligarchs, and war-effort-involved scientists, as well as foreign nationals and individuals who have benefited from the Russian regime for years. The move aims to further constrain the activities of vessels linked to Russia’s shadow fleet, which has been involved in transporting oil, liquefied natural gas, arms, and other items for the benefit of the Kremlin.
“Canada remains unwavering in its commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and its people, who are forcefully defending their rights in the face of Russia’s continued aggression,” said Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs. “As we conclude the 2025 G7 Leaders’ Summit in Kananaskis, we are sending a clear message to Russia that the international community will continue to show a united front to support Ukraine for as long as it takes.”
The new sanctions measure target key sectors and industries critical to Russia’s war effort, including its military-industrial complex. They also aim to limit the supply of items that could benefit the Russian economy or military-industrial complex.
Since 2014, Canada has imposed sanctions on over 3,300 individuals and entities complicit in violating Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The measures announced today complement similar sanctions taken by Canada’s closest allies, including those announced by the United Kingdom earlier today. Canada will continue to work with like-minded partners to coordinate additional measures that increase the economic costs of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine.
Quick Facts:
- Canada is imposing unprecedented sanctions on 77 individuals and 39 entities under the Special Economic Measures (Russia) Regulations.
- The new export restrictions include goods related to the production of chemical and biological weapons, industrial goods, and advanced sensitive technologies with dual-use applications.
- New import restrictions apply to coal, metals, and a range of other goods that generate significant revenue for Russia through exports overseas.
- Canada is listing an additional 201 vessels, bringing the total number of sanctioned vessels to over 300.
The move marks a significant escalation in Canada’s efforts to hold Russia accountable for its actions in Ukraine. The international community remains united in its condemnation of Russia’s aggression and its support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
A Conclusion:
Canada’s record-breaking sanctions on Russia send a clear message that the international community will continue to show a united front to support Ukraine for as long as it takes. As the situation in Ukraine remains volatile, Canada’s leadership and commitment to holding Russia accountable will remain crucial in shaping the global response to this crisis.