Ukraine Tightens Sanctions on Russia

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine convened a crucial meeting on September 30, 2025, to discuss the strengthening and synchronization of sanctions policies with international partners. Key figures, including Rustem Umerov, Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council, and Vladyslav Vlasiuk, Adviser for Sanctions Policy, reported significant developments in Ukraine’s sanction strategies.

In a concerted effort to curb Russian aggression, Ukraine has imposed sanctions on 166 individuals and 127 entities throughout September. These sanctions target supporters of the Russian military-industrial complex, the shadow fleet, and entities in the energy sector. Additionally, they address propagandists and pro-Russian elements in Moldova and Crimea. Efforts were also made to synchronize these sanctions with those of the United Kingdom.

International allies have echoed Ukraine’s stance by introducing their own measures. The United States has restricted 32 entities from importing American goods, while the United Kingdom has launched two sanction packages affecting tankers and companies supporting the Russian military. Japan, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand also took steps, including a price cap on Russian oil, aligning with Ukraine’s proposals.

President Zelenskyy has directed Ukrainian authorities to expedite the synchronization of these sanctions with international partners, emphasizing the role of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in this crucial endeavor. The international community’s collective efforts are aimed at pressuring Russia towards a ceasefire, as detailed in a recent working paper from the International Working Group on Russian Sanctions.