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U.S. Expands Sanctions on Russia’s Military Industrial Base and Sanctions Evasion Networks

In a concerted effort to further isolate Russia amid its ongoing military aggression in Ukraine, the United States announced new sanctions targeting over 250 individuals, entities, and networks that are instrumental in facilitating the Kremlin’s war efforts. These designations come as a continuation of the U.S. government’s broader strategy to undermine Russia’s ability to sustain its war machinery and circumvent international sanctions.

The U.S. Department of State imposed sanctions on more than 150 individuals and entities directly linked to Russia’s defense industry, which plays a central role in the country’s military-industrial complex. Among the targets are dozens of companies operating outside of Russia, particularly in the People’s Republic of China (PRC), which continues to be a critical supplier of defense-related goods to the Russian military. The sanctions also include subsidiaries of State Atomic Energy Corporation Rosatom, which has been involved in supporting Russia’s nuclear and defense capabilities.

The U.S. Department of the Treasury also played a pivotal role in these measures, re-designating nearly 100 entities in Russia’s financial, defense, and energy sectors. Notably, the Treasury took action against individuals and organizations involved in a complex sanctions evasion network operating between Russia and China, which was designed to facilitate cross-border payments for sensitive dual-use goods. This network is critical in enabling Russia’s continued access to materials and technology, despite international restrictions. Furthermore, a financial institution based in the Kyrgyz Republic was designated for its role in helping Russian officials and a U.S.-designated bank evade sanctions.

This latest round of sanctions is part of the United States’ ongoing efforts, in coordination with the Group of Seven (G7) and other allied nations, to apply pressure on Russia and prevent it from further financing its military operations in Ukraine. These sanctions aim to disrupt Russia’s access to the international financial system and essential resources for its defense and energy sectors, thus complicating its ability to wage war.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken emphasized that the United States remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, highlighting that these sanctions are part of a broader strategy to hold Russia accountable for its illegal invasion. “We continue to stand in solidarity with Ukraine and its people as they defend their homeland against Russia’s unjust war,” Blinken stated. He further noted that the U.S. would continue to explore all available tools to disrupt Russia’s military capabilities and limit its ability to evade sanctions.

The United States remains committed to working with international partners to ensure that Russia faces the consequences of its actions, reinforcing a global coalition dedicated to maintaining peace, stability, and the rule of law. These sanctions reflect the continued commitment of the U.S. government to hold those who support Russia’s war effort accountable, while safeguarding Ukraine’s right to self-defense.

As the conflict in Ukraine persists, the U.S. is expected to continue tightening sanctions on Russia and its enablers, targeting sectors that are vital to its war effort and looking to curtail the flow of resources and financial support. The U.S. is also urging other nations to take similar steps in order to close any remaining gaps in the sanctions regime and ensure that Russia cannot evade the full extent of international pressure.

The new sanctions align with Executive Orders 14024 and 13662, aimed at addressing the threat posed by Russia’s destabilizing actions. The U.S. Department of State and the Department of the Treasury have made available detailed fact sheets and press releases outlining the specifics of these designations, marking a key step in the ongoing effort to disrupt Russia’s illegal war machine.

As global attention remains focused on the situation in Ukraine, this move reaffirms the U.S. commitment to using every available diplomatic and economic tool to support Ukraine and counter Russian aggression.

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