President Volodymyr Zelensky has imposed new sanctions on 52 Russian citizens, 34 Russian companies, and one Chinese entity involved in Shahed drone production. The sanctions, announced on June 27, come in response to a notable increase in the number of Russian drone attacks on Ukrainian cities, with reports indicating up to 400-500 unmanned aerial vehicles launched nightly. The measures target entities collaborating with a Russian factory in Yelbuga, Tatarstan, which produces Shahed drones. These sanctions are in addition to Zelensky’s efforts to synchronize with international sanctions imposed by the European Union and the G7, as mentioned in a recently issued decree.
In addition to the sanctions, the Chinese company is implicated in both the production of Shahed-type drones and the manufacturing of chip production equipment. This dual involvement has led to its inclusion on the sanctions list of Ukraine. Targeted individuals and companies are subject to restrictions which prevent them from conducting business in Ukraine, accessing the country’s capital, its public and defense procurement processes, and entry into Ukraine’s territory. The measures are intended to limit the financial and operational support provided to these entities.
Andrii Yermak, the head of the Presidential Office, has confirmed via Telegram the rationale behind these targeted sanctions. He noted that the actions are primarily aimed at entities collaborating with the Shahed drone production facility located in Yelbuga. This is not the first time Zelensky has implemented such measures; on the same day, he also signed a decree to synchronize sanctions against Russia with the European Union and the G7. This move is considered an effort to maintain pressure on Russia amidst the ongoing conflict.
Russia has been utilizing Iranian-designed Shahed drones, produced on its own territory since 2022. These drones have become a key component in the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia. They are used for both surveillance and offensive operations, making them a critical tool in the conflict. The continued use of such drones highlights the shifting nature of modern warfare, where technology plays an increasingly vital role.
A recent effort by the EU to adopt a new package of sanctions against Russia faced opposition from Hungary and Slovakia. This has raised concerns about the effectiveness of international coordination in addressing the conflict. Despite these challenges, Ukraine’s continued sanctions policy, in line with international allies, is aimed at ensuring that Russia faces sustained pressure on multiple fronts.