New Sanctions Target Kremlin-Linked Oligarchs in the UK
In a significant move, Britain is set to impose a ban on entry for Russian oligarchs with ties to the Kremlin, coinciding with the three-year anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The new sanctions will specifically target local and federal politicians, as well as executives from major Russian corporations, effectively barring them from entering the UK. This initiative builds upon existing travel restrictions that have already been placed on prominent figures such as Roman Abramovich.
The British government has announced that these new measures are designed to strengthen the existing sanctions against Russian “elites” who have been supporting President Vladimir Putin’s military actions. Security Minister Dan Jarvis emphasized the straightforward message being sent to Putin’s allies in Moscow: “You are not welcome in the UK.”
Jarvis further stated, “The measures announced today slam the door shut to the oligarchs who have enriched themselves at the expense of the Russian people while bankrolling this illegal and unjustifiable war.” Meanwhile, Defence Secretary John Healey remarked, “Keeping the Ukrainians strong in their fight and at the negotiating table is critical not only for their future but also for the security of the UK.”
These new sanctions come just days before Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is scheduled to travel to Washington to engage in discussions regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine with former President Donald Trump. Additionally, French President Emmanuel Macron is expected to visit the White House on Monday.
On Sunday, Downing Street announced that Sir Keir had agreed with Macron to demonstrate “united leadership” in support of Ukraine. Speaking at the Scottish Labour conference in Glasgow, the Prime Minister expressed, “Nobody wants the bloodshed to continue, least of all the Ukrainians. But after everything they have endured, there can be no discussion about Ukraine without Ukraine, and the people of Ukraine must have a long-term, secure future.”
Sir Keir is also under pressure to use his upcoming trip to clarify a timeline for increasing UK defence spending to 2.5% of national income, amid American calls for Europe to take on a greater share of the security burden on the continent.
Both European leaders are expected to urge Trump not to hastily pursue a ceasefire agreement with Putin at any cost, advocating for continued European involvement in the peace process and discussing military guarantees for Ukraine.
In a separate development on Sunday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky indicated that he is prepared to resign if it would lead to peace in his country, stating, “If there is peace for Ukraine, if you really need me to leave my post, I am ready… I can exchange it for NATO.” He clarified that his focus is on immediate security concerns rather than long-term power, adding, “I don’t plan to be in power for 10 years.”
Zelensky’s comments followed Trump’s characterization of him as a “dictator” for not holding elections, which are currently prohibited under martial law in Ukraine.
