Zelensky announces new sanctions: Russian military-industrial complex partners, cultural figures, and athletes will be subject to restrictions
22 December 2025 15:26
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that by the end of the year, Ukraine will introduce several new packages of sanctions against Russia and its partners who contribute to the war against Ukraine. He announced this on his Telegram channel, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports.
According to the head of state, sanctions decisions are being prepared both at the national level and in coordination with international partners.
Who will be affected by the restrictions
One of the next packages of sanctions will be directed against individuals associated with the Russian military-industrial complex. Zelenskyy clarified that it is not only about Russian citizens.
“These are not only people from Russia, but also from China,” the president said.
In addition, Ukraine plans to impose sanctions on those who publicly justify Russian aggression or promote Russian influence through mass culture. The restrictions may also include athletes who, according to Zelenskyy, use their popularity to glorify the war.
European and Canadian track
The president also said that Ukraine is working with European institutions on the details of the 20th package of EU sanctions. He called the key task to increase pressure on the energy assets of Vladimir Putin and related oligarchs.
In parallel, Zelenskyy said, a new Canadian sanctions package is being prepared. Ukraine intends to continue to synchronize its restrictions with its partners – the relevant decisions of the National Security and Defense Council and presidential decrees are expected in the near future.
In December, Ukraine already imposed large-scale sanctions
In December, Ukraine already imposed large-scale sanctions against almost 700 tankers of the so-called “shadow fleet” of Russia, which is used to transport sanctioned oil.
In September, sanctions were also imposed on individuals and legal entities associated with the military-industrial complex, energy and logistics of Russia. Separately, Ukraine has fully synchronized this year’s sanctions lists with Canada – they cover 139 individuals and companies, including Vladimir Putin’s relatives.
The announced sanctions packages are intended to increase pressure on the economic and symbolic pillars of Russia’s war, from the military-industrial complex and energy to culture and sports. It is expected that the specific lists of individuals and companies will become known after the NSDC makes its decisions and the relevant presidential decrees are signed.
