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Russia has levied sanctions against 18 British citizens, including government officials, academics, and experts on Russia, accusing them of efforts to vilify Russia and exacerbate the war in Ukraine.

In a statement, Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, “We are forced to state that Russophobically charged British representatives do not shy away trying to discredit the constitutional system and socio-political processes in our country.” The Ministry criticized the involvement of British and Western educational institutions in what it describes as London’s “subversive work” against Russia, contributing to a negative portrayal of the country.

Among those sanctioned are British Deputy Defence Minister James Cartlidge, Deputy National Security Adviser Sarah MacIntosh, and Director of Submarines Simon Asquith. The list also includes Stuart Peach, Dan Hannan, and Michael Ashcroft, highlighting a broad spectrum of British public life under scrutiny by Russia. The Ministry further alleged, “By pushing the [President Volodymyr] Zelenskyy regime to continue the bloodshed, the British must realise that, along with Ukrainian neo-Nazis, they bear responsibility for crimes against civilians.”

This development occurs against the backdrop of the UK’s significant military and financial support for Ukraine following Russia’s invasion in February 2022. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has pledged to escalate this support, with the UK committing to a military aid increase for Ukraine. “We will stand with Ukraine in their darkest hours and in the better times to come,” Sunak affirmed, emphasizing the UK’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s fight for freedom and democracy.