In a move to further cripple Russia’s war efforts in Ukraine, the United States has unleashed a new wave of sanctions, targeting over 300 individuals and firms accused of aiding Moscow’s military operations.
The latest crackdown, announced by US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, aims to cut off Russia’s remaining avenues for obtaining critical materials and equipment needed to sustain its unjust invasion.
“We are increasing the risk for financial institutions dealing with Russia’s war economy and eliminating paths for evasion, and diminishing Russia’s ability to benefit from access to foreign technology, equipment, software, and IT services,” Yellen said in a statement.
The sanctions net has been cast wide, ensnaring entities from China, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates, and Turkey, among others. This includes the Moscow Exchange, Russia’s largest public market, UAE-based Red Coast Metals Trading, and Chinese companies like Hangzhou Keming Intelligent Technology and Shandong Oree Laser Technology.
Russia’s response was predictable, with Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova vowing that Moscow would “not leave such aggressive actions without a response.”
The latest move by the US comes as President Joe Biden arrives in Italy for the annual G7 summit, where leaders are expected to discuss ways to bolster support for Ukraine and work towards a ceasefire in the conflict.
The sanctions are part of Washington’s ongoing efforts to cripple Russia’s military-industrial complex and choke off its access to crucial resources needed to sustain the war. As the battle rages on, the global community’s resolve to hold the Kremlin accountable appears unwavering.
