In a significant move, New Zealand has announced a new package of sanctions against Russia, marking another step in the ongoing international sanction response to Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. This announcement, detailed on the New Zealand government's website, underscores the country's commitment to joining global efforts aimed at curtailing Russia's aggressive actions and ensuring compliance with international law.
The newly introduced sanctions by New Zealand include a comprehensive set of measures aimed at tightening the noose around Russia's ability to sustain its military aggression. Among these measures is the implementation of a price cap on Russian-origin oil, set by the G7+, which aims to limit Russia's revenue from oil exports, a critical source of funding for its military operations. Additionally, New Zealand has clearly established a prohibition on the export of dual-use goods to Russia and Belarus through third countries, further tightening the export controls aimed at preventing these nations from acquiring materials that could be used in military applications.
Significantly, the sanctions list has been expanded to include 45 individuals and 16 entities. This expansion is a direct response to the increasingly sophisticated methods being employed to circumvent sanctions. By focusing on evasion tactics, the New Zealand government is contributing to the reliability and effectiveness of the international sanctions regime.
An additional 61 Russian individuals and entities, including those involved in procurement networks aimed at bypassing sanctions, have been sanctioned. This includes companies engaged in acquiring technologies for the Russian defense industry and top managers of some Russian banks, as well as individuals involved in arms procurement from North Korea. These measures underscore New Zealand's determination to prevent its territory and resources from being used as conduits for sanction evasion.
The new restrictions are part of New Zealand's contribution to collective international efforts designed to limit Russia's ability to finance its aggressive war against Ukraine. The government has emphasized that these sanctions are aimed at ensuring New Zealand does not serve as a channel for circumventing international sanctions.
Since the adoption of the Russia Sanctions Act in March 2022, New Zealand has imposed restrictions against over 1,600 individuals and entities, along with a series of trade measures. This demonstrates the country's steadfast position in the international community's endeavor to restore peace and uphold international norms violated by the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
This move by New Zealand reflects the country's ongoing commitment to international law and the global order, reinforcing the message that aggression and disregard for sovereignty will not be tolerated. By aligning its sanctions with those of the broader international community, New Zealand plays a crucial role in the collective effort to bring an end to the conflict and support Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
