Western allies intensified economic and financial pressure on Russia on the fourth anniversary of its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, rolling out a new wave of sanctions designed to curb Moscow’s ability to sustain its war effort.

The United Kingdom announced its most extensive sanctions package in years, listing nearly three hundred additional individuals, entities and energy-related networks including a complex of illicit oil traders linked to Russia’s crude exports.

British measures also target shadow fleet tankers, pipeline operators and financial facilitators that underpin Russian energy revenue and military procurement, reinforcing London’s leadership in isolating Moscow’s economy.

In Canberra, the Australian government imposed its largest set of sanctions since the conflict began, designating around one hundred and eighty Russian individuals, firms and vessels, while expanding restrictions on finance, defence, oil and gas sectors as well as technology and transport.

Australia’s prime minister reiterated Canberra’s steadfast support for Ukraine and its determination to squeeze revenues that fuel Russia’s war machine.

Ottawa, aligning with its partners’ objectives, has also expanded its sanctions framework under the Special Economic Measures (Russia) Regulations, building on years of targeted measures to disrupt Russian finance, trade and shadow fleet activities and reinforcing Canada’s uncompromising stance on Moscow’s continued aggression.

In Wellington, New Zealand maintained its autonomous sanctions regime under the Russia Sanctions Act 2022, which has progressively broadened measures against Russian political, military and economic actors since the outbreak of war.

The fresh actions by these four democracies come as Europe grapples with internal divisions over sanctions, exemplified by the European Union’s inability to agree on a new package ahead of the anniversary, and underscore enduring Western unity in support of Ukraine’s sovereignty.

Leaders across the allied states reiterated calls for an immediate end to the hostilities and stronger collective efforts to hold Russia accountable for the human and material toll of the conflict, now in its fourth year.