Ukraine has enacted fresh sanctions against individuals involved in the deportation of children and has blocked the operations of over twenty tankers associated with Russia’s shadow fleet.
President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the latest sanctions targeting Russian entities linked to the abduction of Ukrainian children and vessels from Russia’s clandestine maritime operations. The sanctions list includes 20 individuals and four organizations implicated in the removal of children from occupied territories and attempts at ideological indoctrination.
Among those sanctioned are Alexander Dyachenko, head of the “Varyag” center, Yuri Mitlenko, a so-called deputy from the Polohy District Council, Igor Telegin, a representative of the occupying authority in Kherson, and Irina Shetely, a school director in Vuhlehirs’k involved in the relocation of 130 children to the Rostov region.
Vladislav Vasyuk, the president’s representative on sanctions policy, emphasized that holding accountable those responsible for the abduction of Ukrainian children is a top priority, stating, “Evil cannot go unpunished.”
The second set of sanctions targets 23 maritime vessels that Russia allegedly uses to export oil in violation of existing sanctions. These tankers serve as logistical hubs for Gazprom Neft. Ukraine aims to coordinate these measures with its partners to ensure legal ramifications in international jurisdictions.
Vasyuk remarked, “We are implementing additional restrictions against the shadow fleet, and we have interesting targets. Our efforts are appreciated by our partners.”
Recently, the European Union officially approved its 20th sanctions package against Russia, marking the most extensive set of restrictions in the past two years. This package addresses various sectors, including energy, the military-industrial complex, and finance.
However, Brussels has postponed a decisive move regarding a complete ban on maritime transport of Russian crude oil and petroleum products. This issue is expected to be discussed at the upcoming G7 summit.
Meanwhile, the President’s Office has outlined priorities for the forthcoming 21st EU sanctions package. Vasyuk indicated that efforts will focus on achieving full financial isolation of the aggressor, enhancing the energy embargo, and halting the supply of components for weaponry.
Ukraine has launched new sanctions aimed at individuals involved in the deportation of children and has targeted Russian oil export operations. This move aligns with broader international efforts to impose restrictions on Russia amid ongoing conflicts.