The Australian Government has announced a sweeping new sanctions package targeting individuals and entities linked to Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, marking the country’s largest sanctions measure since February 2022.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles and Foreign Minister Penny Wong on Monday confirmed that the latest sanctions include financial restrictions and travel bans on 70 individuals, alongside financial sanctions on 79 entities. The move targets key figures supporting Russian administrations in eastern Ukraine and Crimea, including so-called ministers, judges, and prosecutors, as well as individuals responsible for conflict-related sexual violence and the forced deportation of Ukrainian children.
The sanctions also extend to individuals and entities involved in military cooperation between Russia and North Korea. This includes those linked to the reported deployment of North Korean troops to the battlefield, which the Australian Government has condemned as a dangerous escalation with serious consequences for security in both Europe and the Indo-Pacific.
Additionally, individuals and organizations in Russia’s defense, transport, and finance sectors, as well as those engaged in spreading disinformation to undermine Ukraine and democratic governments worldwide, have been sanctioned. The Australian Government emphasized that it has now imposed more than 1,400 sanctions in response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
In a further tightening of trade restrictions, Australia has prohibited the supply of commercial drones and related components to Russia, aiming to prevent any indirect support for Russia’s war economy.
Reaffirming Australia’s commitment to Ukraine, the government reiterated its call for Russia to end its war and comply with international law, particularly concerning civilian protection and the treatment of prisoners of war. Australia has pledged over $1.5 billion in aid to Ukraine, including $1.3 billion in military support through battlefield equipment and troop training initiatives.
“Australia stands with Ukraine in its fight for sovereignty and a just, lasting peace,” the statement concluded.
