**Ukraine Imposes Sanctions on Pro-Russian Individuals**
In a move to curb support for Russia’s war against Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky has imposed sanctions on several individuals who have been promoting Kremlin propaganda. The decree was published on the Presidential Office’s website, along with a list of those affected by the sanctions.
Among those sanctioned is Yulia Latynina, a popular Russian exiled journalist who initially presented herself as anti-war but later became aligned with pro-Russian views. Her comments last month, where she stated that Ukraine in its current form poses an “extraordinary challenge” to Russia, were seen as particularly egregious. This change in tone has made her a target for Zelensky’s sanctions.
Also on the list is Natalia Korolevska, a former Ukrainian lawmaker from the now-banned pro-Russian Opposition Platform — For Life party. She has been living in Dubai since the start of the full-scale war and has been accused of spreading pro-Kremlin narratives. Hennadiy Balashov, a businessman and former Ukrainian lawmaker, has also been sanctioned for his YouTube channel that promotes Russian propaganda.
Other individuals targeted by Zelensky’s sanctions include Ukrainian blogger Andrii Serebrianskyi (also known as Andrii Luhanskyi) and Tatyana Aksenenko, who is allegedly involved in operating one of Russia’s largest pro-war Telegram channels. These sanctions will likely have a significant impact on these individuals’ ability to operate freely.
**The Sanctions: What They Mean**
The sanctions imposed by Zelensky include the freezing of assets, suspension of economic activity and extraction of resources, as well as a ban on flights and shipment of goods. Internet providers must also block access to websites and services hosted on particular domains and subdomains related to the individuals on the list. These restrictions will be in place for 10 years.
The move by Zelensky has been seen as an important step in combating Russian propaganda and support within Ukraine. By targeting individuals who have been promoting Kremlin views, the Ukrainian government is demonstrating its commitment to protecting national security and sovereignty.
**A New Approach**
The sanctions also mark a new approach by the Ukrainian government, which had previously only targeted individuals with a criminal record. Now, citizens can be sanctioned even without one. The legality of this move remains uncertain, but it reflects the Ukrainian government’s determination to take bold action against those who seek to undermine its interests.
As Ukraine continues to navigate the complexities of war and diplomacy, Zelensky’s sanctions are a reminder that the country is not afraid to take decisive action in defense of its values and citizens.
