Australia has imposed its largest package of anti-Russian sanctions since 2022, the Australian Foreign Ministry announced.
“Today marks three years since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
For three years, Ukraine has courageously resisted Russia’s illegal and immoral war of aggression. Australia mourns the loss of Ukrainian citizens and defenders, as well as the generational loss caused by Russia’s brutality.
Australia continues to stand with Ukraine. We have committed over $1.5 billion to help Ukraine defend itself, including over $1.3 billion in military support, providing vital battlefield equipment and training for Ukrainian forces.
From day one, Australia has made it clear that Russia and those who support its illegal invasion will face consequences.
Today, the Australian Government has imposed additional targeted financial sanctions and travel bans on 70 individuals and financial sanctions on 79 entities. This is Australia’s largest sanctions package since February 2022.
The new sanctions target individuals supporting Russia’s illegal administration in eastern Ukraine and Crimea, including so-called ‘ministers,’ judges, and prosecutors, as well as those responsible for conflict-related sexual violence and the forced deportation of Ukrainian children.
They also target individuals and entities involved in deepening military cooperation between Russia and North Korea, including the deployment of North Korean troops on the battlefield.
‘The deepening of Russian-North Korean military cooperation is a dangerous extension of Russia’s war, with serious implications for European and Indo-Pacific security,’ the statement said.
The sanctions also target entities in Russia’s defense, transport, and financial sectors, as well as those spreading disinformation to undermine Ukraine and governments worldwide.
In response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Australia has imposed over 1,400 sanctions.
‘Today, we have further strengthened our trade embargo against Russia, banning the supply of commercial drones and their components, including related services.
Australia once again calls on Russia to immediately cease hostilities and fully comply with its obligations under international law, including the protection of civilians and the treatment of prisoners of war.’
‘Working with Ukraine and our partners, Australia supports a just and lasting peace for Ukraine,’ the Australian Foreign Ministry added.
