UK readies new blow to Russia following backlash over weakened oil sanctions
Illustrative photo (Getty Images)
Following the easing of sanctions on Russian oil, the United Kingdom is preparing a new package of restrictions targeting Russia’s financial sector, which will cover a number of key areas, according to Vladyslav Vlasiuk, Ukraine's presidential envoy for sanctions policy.
According to him, amid discussions regarding the UK's latest decisions, the fact that the sanctions package from May 20 is actually a significant tool for exerting pressure is often overlooked.
"If you analyze the document in detail, London has imposed new restrictions in several areas," Vlasiuk says.
Blow to Russia's nuclear industry
One of the key decisions was the ban on Russian uranium. This involves a complete ban on imports, purchases, and transit through third countries.
This limits Rosatom’s revenues and opportunities in the international nuclear energy market.
New restrictions on Russia's military-industrial complex
Export controls have also been expanded to cover products used in Russia's military industry. The following items are subject to sanctions:
- Industrial chemicals
- Metals
- Equipment for the production of microchips and drones
- Carbon fiber products
- Aluminum
- Boron nitride
- Ammonium fluorides
- Arsine.
Construction and maritime logistics
Separately, restrictions have been imposed on construction services. Companies are prohibited from performing architectural, engineering, and certain construction work for entities linked to Russia.
Controls over Russian vessels have also been tightened. The criteria for identifying them have been expanded, new licensing requirements have been introduced, and a range of maritime services have been banned. The restrictions apply, in particular, to the transport of Russian liquefied natural gas and coal.
"This is the next step in modernizing the sanctions regime, but it is far from the end. We are expecting another major package from the United Kingdom as early as this week, which will focus specifically on the financial sector," the Presidential envoy concludes.
Background
On May 19, the UK issued a license allowing the import of diesel fuel and jet fuel produced from Russian oil in third countries.
The European Commission stated that it was surprised by London’s decision to ease sanctions in this area.
Ukraine also reacted to the easing of sanctions against Russia.
Later, the UK acknowledged that the decision had been made clumsily, which led to a misperception of the government’s position.
