Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree that adds more pressure on people and companies supporting Russia’s war efforts. This new set of sanctions is part of Ukraine’s ongoing plan to push back not just on the battlefield, but also against those helping the war through propaganda and military production.
The sanctions target 39 individuals and 60 companies. Many of the people included in the list are public figures, such as actors, singers, and athletes, who have openly supported Russia’s actions against Ukraine.
The companies are involved in areas like weapons manufacturing and supply chains that assist the Russian military. Some of them are even based outside of Russia, including in China.
This move follows a decision already approved by Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council. It adds to the growing list of sanctions that Ukraine has been rolling out since the full-scale invasion began in 2022. By signing this decree, President Zelensky is showing that anyone who helps the aggressor, whether through words or weapons, will face consequences.
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What the Sanctions Mean in Practice
The new sanctions are not just symbolic—they have real and serious effects. The individuals and companies listed are now facing strict actions that will impact their finances, activities, and movements.
One of the main punishments is the freezing of assets. This means that if those on the list have money, property, or any kind of investments in Ukraine, they won’t be able to use or access them. Their accounts and assets will remain blocked by Ukrainian authorities. Trade restrictions are also in place, stopping these people and businesses from doing any kind of business with Ukraine. That includes buying or selling goods, making deals, or offering services.
Another part of the sanctions includes bans on owning or buying property in Ukraine. Anyone on the list will not be allowed to purchase land, houses, or any other real estate. In addition, if these people or companies had any licenses or official permissions to operate in Ukraine, those have now been canceled. They can no longer do legal business or hold positions that require government approval.
Ukraine has also placed travel-related bans. Some of the individuals will no longer be allowed to pass through Ukraine’s land or airspace. This could limit their ability to move freely across borders.
For public figures who once held awards from the Ukrainian state, those honors have now been revoked. Ukraine no longer wishes to recognize or honor people who support actions that harm its sovereignty and citizens.
These measures are meant to cut off the tools and voices that assist in the continuation of the war. Whether it’s spreading misinformation or building weapons, Ukraine is making it clear that support for Russian aggression will come at a cost.
Another Step in a Wider Campaign
This latest round of sanctions is part of a steady pattern. Only one day before the April 18 decree, President Zelensky announced that two new packages of sanctions were coming. He specifically mentioned they would target Russian propaganda and those involved in producing Iskander missiles, which are powerful weapons used by the Russian military. The announcement set the stage for the formal signing of the decree the next day.
Earlier this month, on April 11, Zelensky had signed off on another set of sanctions. That list focused on people who were spreading messages to support the Kremlin, as well as the so-called “shadow fleet”—a network of ships used to help Russia avoid international trade rules, especially when it comes to selling oil.
Even before that, in January, the Ukrainian government had taken steps to punish people inside Ukraine. These were individuals accused of helping the enemy either by spreading Russian narratives or by cooperating with the occupying forces.
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Each round of sanctions shows Ukraine’s determination to fight back using every method available, not just military action. President Zelensky and his government are using laws, financial rules, and international cooperation to strike back at those who help Russia’s war machine. These sanctions are part of a broader strategy to protect Ukraine’s independence, its people, and its future.
