New Zealand imposed sanctions against Russian and Belarusian companies

On July 21, New Zealand imposed sanctions against Russia and Belarus. The restrictions include enterprises of the Russian military-industrial complex and financial institutions.

This was stated by New Zealand Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta, RBC-Ukraine reports.

Sanctions against Russia

The new sanctions are aimed at the Russian military-industrial complex, paramilitary groups, and persons involved in the illegal transportation and deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia.

"New Zealand continues to stand in support of Ukraine and condemns the individuals and entities contributing to Russia’s abhorrent actions," said Nanaia Mahuta.

According to her, the three Russian citizens targeted by these sanctions were recently involved in the separation of children from their families, facilitating the deportation of children to Russia.

"New Zealand condemns these abhorrent, despicable, and immoral acts and calls on Russia to immediately cease its ongoing violent assault on Ukraine, its people, and its children," the minister added.

Restrictions were also imposed on 14 individuals and legal entities of the Russian defense industry. They develop, produce, or purchase weapons, electronic components, and technologies (such as microelectronics and semiconductors) that Russia uses to wage an aggressive war against Ukraine.

Sanctions against Belarus

New Zealand emphasized that Belarus actively supports Russia as it continues to violate international law and undermine international peace and security.

The Minister stated that the Belarusian regime has confirmed that Russian-controlled nuclear weapons are deployed on its territory, which borders Ukraine.

New Zealand strongly opposes the proliferation and sharing of nuclear weapons and views this move as a direct threat to Ukraine, and its neighboring allies, and a further attempt to destabilize the region.

"The six Belarusian entities being sanctioned include Belarus banks and show New Zealand’s continued condemnation of Belarus’ actions," Mahuta said.

Author – Anastasiya Glotova, 21/07/2023