New Zealand imposes sanctions on Russia for abduction of Ukrainian children, cyberattacks
New Zealand has imposed sanctions against Russia for the abduction of Ukrainian children and cyberattacks; specifically, sanctions have been imposed against 33 individuals and organizations involved in Russian cyberattacks, as well as the forced displacement, abduction, and re-education of Ukrainian children.
"Foreign Minister Winston Peters has announced a new round of sanctions targeting individuals and entities supporting Russia’s illegal war against Ukraine. Today’s sanctions package targets 33 individuals and entities with a particular focus on cyber actors, as well as those involved in the forced relocation, abduction, and re-education of Ukrainian children," according to a statement posted on the country’s government website on Saturday.
"Children should never be used as instruments of war," Mr Peters says. "New Zealand remains deeply concerned by efforts to abduct and re-educate Ukrainian children through coercive state-directed programmes."
The package also includes measures to target malicious cyber actors and those who support the creation and dissemination of anti-Ukrainian propaganda aimed at legitimizing Moscow’s illegal war.
"Activities conducted behind a keyboard can have real consequences. Cyber actors are increasingly being used to gather intelligence, enable sanctions evasion, and disrupt those who oppose Russia’s aggression. New Zealand stands with our partners in calling out Moscow’s use of these actors," the minister said.
The announced sanctions also target those who contribute to Russia’s military-industrial complex, Russian political figures, and entities from North Korea and Iran that support Moscow’s illegal invasion.