Ukraine has enacted sanctions against ten Russian telecommunications operators and internet providers that facilitate communication for occupying forces. This decision, signed by President Volodymyr Zelensky, follows a resolution from the National Security and Defense Council (NSDC).
The sanctioned companies are accused of providing secure communication channels for the Russian authorities, offering internet services in temporarily occupied territories, and broadcasting Russian television channels. Notable entities on the sanctions list include:
- “Luhansk Communications” and “Mobile Communication Systems,” used by Russia to disseminate propaganda.
- The federal satellite communications operator “Amtel-Connection.”
- The enterprise “Cosmic Connection,” which supplies secure channels for military operations.
Ukraine plans to share information about these companies with international partners to coordinate sanctions across various jurisdictions. Vladislav Vlasuk, the presidential advisor on sanctions policy, emphasized that any activity in occupied territories is illegal, rendering companies that support the occupiers toxic for global business.
The sanctions aim to obstruct these companies’ operations outside of Russia. This move aligns with ongoing efforts by the European Union to intensify economic and political pressure on the aggressor state.
Recently, Brussels proposed a new 21st sanctions package targeting critical sectors, including energy, financial services, trade, cryptocurrency, and fishing. A key feature of these new restrictions is a complete travel ban to the EU for former Russian military personnel involved in aggression against Ukraine.
Additionally, European diplomacy is preparing individual sanctions against another 80 Russian organizations and individuals, focusing on enterprises in the Russian defense industry, Kremlin propagandists, and human rights violators. Currently, over 2,600 entities from Russia are under European sanctions, with the total financial impact on the Kremlin from EU pressure reaching $1.5 trillion.
Ukraine has imposed sanctions on several Russian telecom companies aiding occupying forces, aiming to block their operations internationally. This move is part of broader efforts by Ukraine and the EU to increase pressure on Russia amid ongoing conflict.