The United Kingdom will introduce a new set of sanctions against Russia on Monday, according to Foreign Secretary David Lammy. The sanctions coincide with the third anniversary of Russia’s war against Ukraine.
UK Increases Pressure on Russia
“This is also the time to turn the screws on [Vladimir] Putin’s Russia,” Lammy stated.
He further emphasized the scale of the move, saying, “Tomorrow, I plan to announce the largest package of sanctions against Russia since the early days of the war—eroding their military machine and reducing revenues fuelling the fires of destruction in Ukraine.”
Sanctions Amid Peace Talks
The decision comes as former U.S. President Donald Trump pushes for negotiations to end the ongoing conflict. However, Ukraine and its European allies have not been included in discussions with Russia regarding the war’s resolution.
Lammy stressed that this is a critical moment not only for Ukraine but for Britain and Europe as well. He urged European nations to reinforce their support for Ukraine.
Since the war began, the UK has sanctioned 1,900 individuals and organizations linked to Putin’s regime as of January 2025.
EU Expands Sanctions Against Russia
The European Union is also imposing new restrictions targeting Russia’s financial, aviation, military, and energy sectors. These measures include freezing bank assets, imposing travel bans, and restricting trade.
Last week, EU nations agreed on an additional round of sanctions, which includes banning imports of Russian aluminum. The sanctions will be officially adopted on Monday.
UK Reinforces Military Support for Ukraine
Lammy reiterated the UK’s strong military backing for Ukraine. Recently, Britain committed to providing £3 billion ($3.78 billion) annually in aid and signaled its willingness to deploy troops as part of peacekeeping forces if necessary.
“Off the battlefield, we will work with the US and European partners to achieve a sustainable, just peace, and in doing so, remain clear that there can be nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine,” Lammy affirmed.
On Saturday, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke separately with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to reinforce Britain’s commitment.
Starmer to Meet Trump Amid Tensions
Starmer is scheduled to travel to Washington on Thursday for a meeting with Trump. He aims to act as a mediator between the US and Europe, seeking security and territorial guarantees for Ukraine in case of a peace deal.
However, the situation remains complicated following a recent dispute between Trump and Zelensky. Trump referred to the Ukrainian leader as a “dictator” and described his talks with Russia as “good.” He also criticized Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, accusing them of failing to take action to end the war.
European leaders fear that if Washington pressures Ukraine into an unfavorable deal, it could allow Putin to claim victory and increase Russia’s influence over the continent.
