UK Steps Up Pressure on Putin’s Inner Circle with Fresh Sanctions Amid Navalny’s Legacy
In a significant escalation of efforts to hold the Kremlin accountable, the UK has imposed a new round of sanctions targeting individuals closely linked to President Vladimir Putin’s inner circle.
The announcement comes nearly a year after the tragic death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, marking a renewed commitment to countering corruption and political repression within Russia.
The latest sanctions hit several high-profile figures within the Russian government. Among those targeted are Pavel Fradkov, a key player in the Russian Ministry of Defence, and Vladimir Selin, who leads a critical division within the Ministry. Artem Chaika, the head of a powerful extractives company that supports state-owned Russian enterprises, is also on the list. All three men are included in the Navalny 50—a notorious anti-corruption list compiled by Russian dissidents.
In addition to the individuals, the UK has sanctioned two entities linked to Rosatom, Russia’s state-owned nuclear energy giant. These companies are implicated in supporting Russia’s military operations in Ukraine, underscoring the UK’s resolve to choke off resources enabling Russia’s aggression.
These sanctions are introduced just as Foreign Secretary David Lammy attends the Munich Security Conference, where he will meet with Yulia Navalnaya, Alexei Navalny’s widow, to honor his enduring legacy. Lammy will use the occasion to reaffirm the UK’s unwavering support for Russian civil society and human rights defenders, who continue to fight for a brighter future in the face of grave personal danger.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy commented, “These sanctions are an extension of our ongoing efforts to apply relentless pressure on Putin’s regime. Ukrainians are not just fighting for their country’s sovereignty but for the very principle of self-determination across Europe. The UK will continue to stand with them at the forefront of this struggle.”
Lammy also expressed his honor in meeting with Yulia Navalnaya, pledging continued support for efforts to weaken Putin’s hold on power and dismantle the corrupt systems sustaining his regime globally. “We stand with the people of Russia and those who refuse to bow to tyranny,” Lammy added. “We call on our allies to ramp up their support as the Russian aggression continues to threaten international peace.”
In addition to his engagement on Russian sanctions, Lammy’s visit to Munich also focuses on strengthening partnerships with Ukraine.
Last week, the Foreign Secretary was in Kyiv, emphasizing the deepening of the UK’s 100-Year Partnership with Ukraine. He will push for broader international alignment, stressing that Ukraine’s allies must maintain unity in the face of Russia’s continued assault.
The UK’s relationship with the United States remains pivotal in ensuring the security and prosperity of millions. Lammy will meet with senior officials of the Biden administration in Munich to discuss enhancing collaboration, bolstering both nations’ economies, and reinforcing shared safety goals.
Beyond Europe, Lammy will also engage with Middle Eastern leaders, including those from the Quint Group, urging renewed focus on lasting peace in Gaza and Lebanon as the fragile ceasefire endures.
In Syria, the UK has announced £3 million in humanitarian aid to support food deliveries, particularly Ukrainian grain, to regions suffering from the effects of conflict.
“As we continue to champion a peaceful and prosperous future for Syria, the interests of its people must be front and center in all discussions,” Lammy concluded, underscoring the UK’s steadfast commitment to international peace and justice.
