On the third anniversary of the war in Ukraine, Australia and New Zealand have introduced tough new sanctions against Russia. These measures are aimed at Russian citizens, businesses, and organizations that, according to officials, are involved in supporting the war.
The governments of both countries announced these actions as part of their ongoing efforts to pressure Moscow. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong called it the most significant round of sanctions since the war began in February 2022. New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters also confirmed additional sanctions targeting Russian industries and individuals.
The fresh penalties come alongside financial aid for Ukraine, with Denmark also pledging millions in humanitarian and reconstruction support. According to the United Nations, almost 13 million Ukrainians will require humanitarian assistance in 2025.
What Australia’s New Sanctions Include
The Australian government has added 70 more Russian individuals and 79 companies to its growing sanctions list. Since 2014, Australia has imposed restrictions on more than 1,200 people and over 300 companies from Russia and Belarus. These latest penalties are mainly aimed at those accused of strengthening Russia’s military ties with North Korea.
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Australia’s new restrictions target:
- Russian defense companies
- Transport and financial sector businesses
- People accused of spreading misinformation about Ukraine
Additionally, Australia has banned the export of drone-related technologies and any services that could help Russia produce drones. Other long-standing bans include:
- A total block on Russian banks accessing Australian financial markets
- A halt to all arms exports to Russia
- A full trade embargo on goods and services related to oil, gas, and mineral extraction
By tightening these restrictions, Australia aims to disrupt Russia’s military operations and reduce its ability to sustain the war effort.
New Zealand Follows with More Sanctions
New Zealand has also imposed a new wave of sanctions, targeting 52 individuals and organizations linked to Russia’s defense and energy sectors. This includes military leaders, business executives, and public organizations accused of aiding the war.
The country has already taken action against more than 1,800 Russian individuals and 400 organizations since 2022. This includes key government figures, financial institutions, media outlets, and business leaders.
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The latest measures also extend to North Korean individuals allegedly involved in supplying military support to Russia. New Zealand has banned several Russian oil and energy companies, as well as businesses involved in drone production and transportation.
In addition to sanctions, New Zealand has pledged an extra $1.7 million to a World Bank fund for Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction. Officials say this money will help support Ukraine’s rebuilding efforts after three years of war.
More Support for Ukraine Amid Growing Humanitarian Needs
The war has caused severe humanitarian suffering in Ukraine. The Danish government announced an additional $56.81 million in humanitarian aid and reconstruction assistance. Since the start of the conflict, Denmark has provided over €7.2 billion in military aid and nearly €709 million in civilian support.
According to UN estimates, more than a third of Ukraine’s population will need humanitarian aid in 2025. Governments around the world continue to step up their support as the war enters its fourth year.
Australia and New Zealand’s latest sanctions add to a growing list of international penalties designed to isolate Russia economically. With these new restrictions, both nations reaffirm their stance against the war while increasing aid to Ukraine.
