New Zealand imposes sanctions on 87 Russian politicians and military personnel

This is reported by New Zealand's official government website.

Today, New Zealand has announced one of the largest rounds of sanctions against Russia. Restrictions were imposed on 87 Russians, including politicians. The sanctions also apply to the families and partners of the sanctioned.

"It also includes Members of the Central Election Commission of the Russian Federation, who sought to legitimise the attack on Ukraine’s sovereignty through sham referenda in the illegally annexed regions of Ukraine. The military personnel we have chosen to sanction have had active roles in the conflict," said Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta.

The minister emphasized that this complements the response of the country, which provides military, humanitarian and financial support to Ukraine.

"Russia’s actions continue to have implications for global peace, security, and economic stability, which impact Aotearoa New Zealand. Ukraine’s self-defence is also a fight to defend core principles that New Zealanders hold dear: territorial integrity; freedom fundamental human rights; and an international rules-based system that we rely on for our peace and prosperity," the minister said.

On March 9, 2022, the country's parliament unanimously passed a law on sanctions against Russia. In total, restrictions were applied to more than a thousand individuals and more than 350 organizations.

"A year on from Russia’s senseless invasion, our call to President Putin remains the same.  We continue to call on Russia to act consistently its international obligations, cease Russia’s military aggression, withdraw troops and then return to meaningful diplomatic negotiations," Nanaia Mahuta said, adding that New Zealand will continue to support Ukraine.

• On February 24, it was announced that the Australian government would send drones to Ukraine and expand sanctions against Russia: 90 Russian citizens and 40 organizations, including 5 deputy prime ministers and Patriarch Kirill, were added to the list.