The United Kingdom has added companies from Kyrgyzstan and Georgia to its "blacklist."
The new package of sanctions is aimed at cryptocurrency exchange offices and the "A7" network.
The UK government statement notes that sanctions have been imposed on 15 companies and three individuals who are "helping to circumvent sanctions against Russia."
The new sanctions package targets cryptocurrency exchange offices and the "A7" network. According to the UK Foreign Office, this network uses Kyrgyzstan's financial systems to funnel funds into Russia's military economy. Over the past year, $90 billion has passed through this network.
According to an official London statement, the "Eurasian Savings Bank" has been placed under restrictions because it provided financial services to individuals operating in the financial services sector strategically important to the Russian government. The strictest set of measures has been imposed on the bank: in addition to asset freezes and a ban on directors working, UK entities are prohibited from entering into correspondent relationships with this bank and making any payments.
The "State Brokerage Company" and "Issuer of Virtual Assets" are accused by UK officials of being interested in the Russian government or supporting it through economically significant activities. These organizations face asset freezes and restrictions on trust services.
Additionally, special sanctions have been imposed on the "Issuer of Virtual Assets." UK providers, social networks, and app stores are required to restrict users' access to this entity's content and services within the country.
The sanctions list also includes three Georgian companies that are assisting in circumventing previously imposed restrictions and bans on Russia.
