New UK sanctions: why the export of gamepads to Russia was banned
24 April 16:03
The United Kingdom has unveiled a comprehensive package of 150 new sanctions against Russia, stepping up efforts to limit Moscow’s military capabilities and economic resilience amid its ongoing invasion of Ukraine. The targeted items include video game consoles and controllers that the Russian military has set out to use to control UAVs, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports, citing Reuters.
This extreme package of restrictions, which the British government has called one of the most extensive since the beginning of the war, is intended to cut off Russia’s access to critical technology and financial resources.
“We are … completely banning video game consoles going to Russia, preventing them from being used to pilot drones on the front line, which means that game consoles will no longer be repurposed for killing in Ukraine,” said Sanctions Minister Stephen Doughty.
The British official made the statement after the Ukrainian Air Force said that Russia had launched 215 drones and missiles during the night attack.
It should be noted that the European Union adopted a similar ban on video games and joysticks earlier this year.
In addition, the UK has also announced that it is blocking the export of software used in the defense and energy sectors, including programs used to manufacture weapons and to find and develop new oil and gas wells.
Targeting military supply chains and technologies
A significant part of the sanctions is aimed at Russia’s military-industrial complex. The UK has banned the export of various technologies that the Russian military has begun to use on the battlefield.
Sanctions Minister Stephen Doughty emphasized that this step is intended to prevent the use of game consoles for “killing in Ukraine.”
In addition, the sanctions cover a wide range of components and technologies vital to Russian weapons production, such as microelectronics and machine tools .
By targeting these sectors, the UK seeks to prevent Russia from sustaining its military operations.
Combating sanctions evasion and revenue streams
The UK government is also fighting the methods used by Russia to circumvent existing sanctions. The country has introduced new measures to close the loopholes that Moscow uses to access Western technology and financial systems. This includes restrictions on legal entities and individuals who facilitate such evasions.
In addition, sanctions apply to the lucrative Russian diamond industry. The United Kingdom has imposed a ban on imports of Russian synthetic diamonds processed in third countries in order to cut off a significant source of revenue that could be used to finance military operations.
International cooperation and wider implications
These sanctions are part of a coordinated effort with international partners to increase pressure on the Kremlin. While the UK has taken a firm stance, there is a growing divergence of approaches to Russia among Western allies.
The United States, in particular, is showing signs of a more conciliatory approach, with reports that US President Donald Trump is considering easing certain sanctions in exchange for progress in peace talks.
In contrast, the UK’s actions underscore its commitment to holding Russia to account and supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty. The British government continues to advocate for a strong international response to Russian aggression, emphasizing the importance of unity among allies.
What sanctions has the UK imposed on Russia since February 2022?
Since February 2022, the UK has imposed extensive sanctions on Russia in response to its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. These measures cover a wide range of areas, including finance, energy, transportation, technology exports, and restrictions on individuals and companies.
Financial sanctions
Asset freezes and transaction bans for major Russian banks, including VTB, Sberbank and Promsvyazbank.
Restrictions on the provision of financial services, including a ban on the export of banking services, investment consulting and trust services to Russian clients.
Exclusion of Russian banks from the SWIFT international system.
Sanctions against individuals and companies
Imposition of sanctions against more than 2,000 individuals and entities, including President Vladimir Putin, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, oligarchs and high-ranking officials.
Freezing of assets and a ban on entry to the UK for those involved in the aggression against Ukraine.
Trade and export restrictions
Ban on exports of high-tech goods to Russia, including electronics, aircraft components and dual-use equipment.
Restrictions on imports of Russian goods, including oil, gas, coal, gold, diamonds and timber.
Introduction of additional duties on imports of certain Russian goods, such as vodka and other luxury goods.
Transportation and logistics measures
Closure of the UK airspace for Russian airlines and a ban on landing of Russian aircraft.
A ban on Russian ships entering British ports.
Additional restrictions
Termination of the “golden visa” program for wealthy investors from Russia.
Tighter control over the circumvention of sanctions through third countries, including Kazakhstan, Turkey and India.
Strengthening cooperation with the US and the EU to coordinate sanctions policy and prevent circumvention of restrictions.
Читайте нас у Telegram: головні новини коротко
