**Ukraine Tightens Noose Around Russian Defense Industry**
In a move to deepen its alignment with the European Union’s (EU) punitive measures against Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has enacted a new round of sanctions targeting dozens of individuals and companies linked to Russia’s defense industry. The latest sanctions package includes 45 Russian nationals and 50 companies that are directly or indirectly involved in Russia’s military industrial complex.
**A Synchronized Effort**
The new sanctions, as per the presidential decree, include a full asset freeze, restrictions on trade operations, suspension of transit, flights, and transportation through Ukrainian territory, and revocation of state honors. Zelensky has stated that the move synchronizes Ukraine’s sanctions with those of the EU, bringing all 18 sanction packages into effect in Ukraine.
**A Message to Russia**
The president noted that restrictions from the EU’s 18th sanctions package have now been extended to individuals and legal entities from Russia, China, Iran, and other countries. He emphasized that maximum sanctions pressure is the most effective argument for Russia to end the war, citing the impact of the sanctions on Russia’s federal budget, regions, and sectors of their economy.
**A Second Sanctions Decision**
Zelensky also announced a second sanctions decision targeting Russian military production. Ukraine has imposed measures against more than 90 companies involved in the extraction of rare-earth and critical metals used in manufacturing electronics, engines, drones, and guidance systems.
**Commentary**
The EU’s approval of its latest 18th sanctions package against Russia on July 18 has been seen as a significant move to strengthen the bloc’s economic pressure on Moscow. The new restrictions target Russia’s oil revenues, shadow fleet, banking system, and technology imports used in warfare. As Ukraine continues to tighten its noose around Russian interests, it remains to be seen how Russia will respond to this increased economic pressure.
**A Turning Point?**
The sanctions package also includes new restrictions on Russian liquefied natural gas, sanctions on Rosneft’s key Indian refinery, and measures against those involved in the political indoctrination of Ukrainian children. This latest round of sanctions could potentially mark a turning point in Ukraine’s efforts to weaken Russia economically.
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