US Commerce Department Acts to Restrict Exports to Russia Amid Ongoing Conflict

Washington: On Friday, the United States announced comprehensive sanctions against nearly 400 individuals and entities linked to Russia‘s ongoing conflict in Ukraine, coinciding with the eve of Ukraine’s independence day.

The measures, revealed by the US Treasury, State, and Commerce Departments, are an extension of the extensive sanctions already in place against Russia since the invasion began, now entering its third year.

“Russia has transformed its economy into a vehicle for the Kremlin’s military-industrial complex,” stated Deputy Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo. He emphasized that the latest sanctions reflect the commitments made by President Biden and G7 leaders to disrupt Russia’s military supply chains and financial channels.

The sanctions specifically target around 400 individuals and organizations, both within Russia and abroad, that contribute to Russia’s military efforts and aid in circumventing sanctions. This includes 60 defense and technology firms essential for sustaining and advancing Russia’s defense capabilities.

In a separate announcement, the State Department noted it was responsible for implementing 190 of the sanctions, while the Treasury Department accounted for nearly 200. The designations aim to disrupt sanctions evasion and target entities in various third countries, including China, involved in supporting Russian energy initiatives.

Additionally, the US Commerce Department declared it would take “aggressive action” to further limit the supply of US-made items to Russia and Belarus, citing the “Kremlin’s unlawful war on Ukraine.” The department asserted that these new measures would significantly hinder Russia’s capacity to equip its military by targeting illicit procurement networks that attempt to bypass global export controls.