The United Kingdom will announce new sanctions against Russia on Monday, the third anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine, to tighten the pressure on Moscow.
The measures, described as the largest sanctions package since the early days of the war, were announced by Foreign Secretary David Lammy.
Lammy stated that the sanctions aim to hit Russia’s revenue and hinder President Vladimir Putin’s “military machine”. He also emphasised the UK’s commitment to working with the United States and European partners to achieve a “sustainable, just peace” involving Kyiv.
The US has begun talks to end the war but has not yet involved Ukraine. On Friday, US President Donald Trump suggested that Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky must engage in dialogue.
Next week, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer will meet Trump in Washington to underline British support for Ukraine and ensure US alignment with European nations. French President Emmanuel Macron will also meet Trump next week.
Lammy noted that the sanctions come at a “critical moment” for Ukraine, the UK, and Europe, marking three years of war and consistent British support for Kyiv.
The UK has pledged £3 billion (over €3.6 billion) in military aid to Ukraine this year and is prepared to send troops for a peacekeeping mission if necessary.
“This is the time to tighten the screws on Putin’s Russia. I will announce the largest sanctions package against Russia tomorrow since the early days of the war, to undermine the military machine and limit the revenue fuelling the destruction in Ukraine,” Lammy said. He added that Europe must increase its support for Ukraine and promote “peace through military strength”.
European Union member states are also set to finalise new sanctions against Russia. Earlier this week, a diplomatic agreement was reached on a sixteenth sanctions package, and on Monday, Foreign Ministers will officially approve the measures at a meeting in Brussels.
