New Zealand adopts new sanctions package against Russia

New Zealand has imposed new sanctions against Russia.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Winston Peters today announced a new package as part of the ongoing international sanctions response to Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Rubryka reports.

The sanctions against Russia include imposing G7+ price caps on Russian-origin oil, clearly establishing a ban on exporting prohibited goods to Russia and Belarus through third countries and targeting individuals and legal entities.

"New Zealand has sanctioned a further 61 Russian individuals and entities, including those involved in sanctions evasion procurement networks," he said.

These organizations procure technologies for the Russian defense industry and senior executives of certain Russian banks. Individuals involved in arms procurement from North Korea are also subject to sanctions.

"These new designations are a contribution by New Zealand to collective international efforts to impair Russia's ability to fund its war of aggression against Ukraine, and ensure New Zealand is not used as a channel for sanctions evasion," said Winston Peters. "The sanctions underscore New Zealand's steadfast condemnation of Russia's unprovoked and unjustifiable war against Ukraine, as we reach the two-year point since the February 2022 full-scale invasion."

New Zealand's assistance to Ukraine

New Zealand decided to participate in training Ukrainian military personnel in the UK in 2022. In February last year, the government of New Zealand extended visas offered to Ukrainians fleeing Russian aggression.

In the summer of 2023, the government of New Zealand announced sanctions against the Russian Federation and Belarus. On February 22, New Zealand announced a new $25.9 million aid package for Ukraine.

Sanctions against Russia

The United States imposed a comprehensive sanctions package against Russia for its military aggression in Ukraine on February 23. Hundreds of legal entities are subject to restrictions.

As part of the 13th package of sanctions against Russia, the European Union introduced restrictions on several governors, "officials" in the occupied territories, and representatives of the DPRK.

Moreover, Canada has imposed new sanctions against the Russian Federation. Several defense plants, a seaport, and an assistant to Russian President Vladimir Putin are among those affected by the restrictions.