**UK Sanctions Russian Spies for Cyberattacks and Mariupol Strike Links**
The British government has taken a strong stance against Russia by sanctioning three military intelligence units and 18 officers. This move comes as part of a broader effort to counter Russia’s malicious cyber activities and hybrid threats.
According to the UK Foreign Office, the sanctioned units were involved in a long-running campaign of cyberattacks and reconnaissance targeting media outlets, political institutions, telecommunications providers, and energy infrastructure in the UK and Europe. One of these units was also accused of helping coordinate Russian missile strikes on Mariupol in 2022, including the devastating bombing of the city’s drama theater where hundreds of civilians were sheltering.
**The Human Cost**
Estimates put the death toll from the Mariupol strike between 300 and 900, according to an Associated Press investigation. This horrific incident is just one example of Russia’s brutal tactics in Ukraine. The UK government has made it clear that they will not tolerate such actions.
**A Strong Message**
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy stated, “GRU spies are running a campaign to destabilize Europe, undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty, and threaten the safety of British citizens.” He added, “The Kremlin should be in no doubt: we see what they are trying to do in the shadows and we won’t tolerate it.”
**A Broader Effort**
This move coincides with the European Union’s approval of its 18th sanctions package against Russia over its ongoing war in Ukraine. The UK government’s decision sends a strong message that they will not be intimidated by Russia’s aggressive behavior.
As Lammy said, “Putin’s hybrid threats and aggression will never break our resolve.” The UK and their allies’ support for Ukraine and Europe’s security is “ironclad.”
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