British Foreign Minister James Cleverly emphasised the importance of Ukraine's reconstruction needs, stating, "Through our new measures today, we're strengthening the UK's sanctions approach, affirming that the UK is prepared to use sanctions to ensure Russia pays to repair the country it has so recklessly attacked."
Since the invasion of Ukraine, Britain has frozen over £18 billion ($23 billion) in assets and imposed sanctions on more than 1,550 Russian individuals, including Roman Abramovich, the former owner of Chelsea Football Club.
In addition, the British government announced that sanctioned Russians who support Ukraine will now have the opportunity to donate their frozen funds for Ukrainian reconstruction. This voluntary process allows sanctioned individuals to apply for funds to be released explicitly for supporting Ukraine's recovery and reconstruction. The government clarified that there will be no coercion or offer of sanctions relief in exchange for making a donation.
The legislation aims to uphold pressure on Russia until it announces a new route for donating frozen assets to Ukraine's reconstruction. Britain's commitment to maintaining sanctions underscores its determination to hold Russia accountable and support Ukraine in its efforts to rebuild and recover.
(Reuters/NAN)