Australia announces the largest package of sanctions against russia in three years

"Australia has made it clear from day one that russia and those who facilitate its illegal invasion will face consequences. Today, the Australian government has imposed additional targeted financial sanctions and travel bans on 70 individuals and targeted financial sanctions on 79 organizations,” the statement said.

It is noted that this is Australia's largest package of sanctions since February 2022.

These new sanctions are aimed at individuals who support russia's illegal administrations in eastern Ukraine and Crimea, “including so-called ministers, judges and prosecutors,” as well as those responsible for conflict-related sexual violence and the forced deportation of Ukrainian children.

The sanctions also target individuals and entities involved in deepening military cooperation between russia and North Korea, including the deployment of North Korean troops on the battlefield.

The sanctions also targeted entities in russia's defense, transportation, and financial sectors, as well as those “spreading disinformation to undermine support for Ukraine and governments around the world.”

It is noted that in response to russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Australia has imposed a total of more than 1,400 sanctions. The Australian government has thus taken decisive action to ensure that Australians do not inadvertently fuel russia's military economy.

“Today, we have further strengthened trade restrictions against russia by banning the supply of commercial drones and components, including the provision of related services,” the statement added.

The government recalled that Australia has allocated more than $1.5 billion to help Ukraine defend itself, including more than $1.3 billion in military support in the form of vital equipment for the battlefield and training for Ukrainian forces.

Australia reiterated its call on russia to immediately end the war and fully comply with its obligations under international law, including the protection of civilians and the treatment of prisoners of war.

Source: website of the Prime Minister of Australia