Ukraine Strikes Back with Sanctions

In a significant move on November 9, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy enacted two new decrees imposing sanctions on key Russian figures and entities, escalating the ongoing geopolitical tensions between Ukraine and Russia. These decisions, derived from the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine, target individuals and organizations involved in actions against Ukrainian sovereignty and cultural heritage.

The first decree focuses on eight individuals, including Russian government officials and affiliates, accused of crimes such as the appropriation of Ukrainian agricultural and cultural assets, and the propagation of anti-Ukrainian narratives through Russian educational standards in occupied Ukrainian territories. Among those sanctioned are an FSB agent and Kirill Dmitriev, a financier closely linked to the Russian leadership, known for his role in spreading Russian propaganda and securing investments in crucial sectors of foreign economies.

Additionally, the second decree imposes restrictions on five Russian publishing houses. These entities have been instrumental in justifying Russian aggression and disseminating propaganda. The sanctions aim to prevent these publishers from participating in international book fairs and to eliminate their presence on global online sales platforms, as stated by Vladyslav Vlasiuk, Advisor – Commissioner of the President of Ukraine for Sanctions Policy.

President Zelenskyy’s administration has expressed intentions to collaborate with international partners to expand these sanctions, reflecting a robust strategic response to recent Russian sanctions against Ukrainian officials and ongoing aggressive actions. This development marks a critical stance by Ukraine in the face of prolonged conflict and aggression from Russia.