the US, the European Union and the United Kingdom have reacted quickly and unanimously against Russia as soon as Putin on Monday recognized the pro-Russian Ukrainian republics of Donetsk and Luganks and sent troops to them. The sanctions -punishments imposed by some countries on others for breaking international law- go through measures to damage the economy of the sanctioned state and the finances of individuals linked to power. All Western actors in the conflict have insisted that the initial sanctions are likely to be extended and tightened,
EU sanctions
The EU has sanctioned to 27 Russian individuals and organizationsincluding banks. As well has limited access to European capital markets, preventing access to EU bank funds, and banning trade between the EU and the two rebel-controlled regions. Some 351 members of the Russian Dumathe lower house of Parliament, are also subject to sanctions involving the travel ban to European territory and the freezing of assets in the same.
Germanyfor its part, has blocked the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline -which unites Germany and Russia-, whose certification was pending.
US sanctions
The US sanctions announced Tuesday are intended to harm Russia’s ability to finance its military efforts. They are headed to two state banks which, according to the United States, are key to Russia’s defense sector. They will no longer be able to do business in the United States or access the American financial system. The Biden administration is also sanctioning five key Russian elites and adding restrictions to US deals related to the Russian national debt.
The Americans are banned from doing business in the rebel areas of Luhansk and Donetsk, after Russia recognized them. Few US companies operate in the affected regions.
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UK sanctions
The British Prime Minister Boris Johnsonhas announced sanctions against five russian banks and three rich russian businessmen.