Bill Browder, a prominent critic of the Russian government and founder of the Open Russia group, is advocating for measures to hold Vladimir Putin accountable for the ongoing war in Ukraine. He has called for the international community to take stronger action against the Kremlin, arguing that the current sanctions regime has become ineffective due to sanctions fatigue.
In a recent interview, Browder discussed the need to enhance the Magnitsky Act, a law that allows countries to impose sanctions on individuals responsible for human rights abuses. He believes that the Act could be leveraged more effectively to target high-ranking Russian officials, including Putin himself. Additionally, he has proposed the use of frozen Russian assets to further pressure the Kremlin, suggesting that these funds could be used to support Ukraine’s war effort or as a means to cripple Russian financial institutions.
Browder’s comments come at a time when many Western countries are reevaluating their economic strategies toward Russia. While sanctions have had a significant impact, the growing sentiment of fatigue among governments and businesses has led to calls for more targeted and sustainable measures. Browder stresses that the international community must maintain its resolve, warning that any relaxation of pressure could embolden Putin’s regime and prolong the conflict.