Ukrainian President Signs New Sanctions Targeting Russian Propaganda Supporters

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed a new package of sanctions targeting individuals who justify Russian aggression against Ukraine and participate in Russian propaganda efforts, according to an announcement reported by Ukrainian News Network (UNN).

The latest round of restrictions represents another step in Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to counter Russian influence operations and information warfare that have accompanied the military conflict between the two nations.

“I also signed a new decision on sanctions – these are sanctions against those who justify aggression and are used by Russia in propaganda,” Zelenskyy stated in his announcement.

The Ukrainian leader emphasized that this move is part of a broader sanctions strategy, noting that he has already approved additional punitive measures that will be formally announced in the coming days. While specific details about targeted individuals remain undisclosed, the sanctions likely include asset freezes, travel restrictions, and potential economic penalties.

“I also approved the next sanction steps – decisions will be made soon,” Zelenskyy continued, underscoring his administration’s commitment to maintaining pressure on Russia and its supporters.

Since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukraine has systematically expanded its sanctions regime, targeting Russian officials, businesses, propagandists, and international supporters of the Kremlin’s war efforts. These measures parallel similar actions taken by Western allies, including the United States and European Union.

The president highlighted the importance of international coordination in sanctions policy, stating, “Pressure on Russia must be maintained, and we continue to work on synchronizing sanctions, and not only the decisions of partners in our jurisdiction, but also Ukrainian sanction decisions in the lists of partners.”

This emphasis on sanctions synchronization reflects Ukraine’s diplomatic push to ensure that its own restrictive measures are recognized and enforced by international partners, creating a more comprehensive global response to Russian aggression.

Countering Russian propaganda has been a critical component of Ukraine’s defense strategy throughout the conflict. The Kremlin has deployed substantial resources to spread disinformation about the war, attempting to justify its invasion and undermine international support for Ukraine.

The timing of these new sanctions comes as Ukraine faces continued challenges on multiple fronts. The announcement referenced a tragic incident that occurred on January 17, 2026, when an explosion rocked a high-rise residential building in Kharkiv’s Saltivsky district. According to Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov, the blast resulted in casualties, though the exact cause remains under investigation.

Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city located just 30 kilometers from the Russian border, has faced persistent bombardment throughout the conflict. The city’s proximity to Russia makes it particularly vulnerable to artillery strikes and missile attacks, and its civilian infrastructure has been repeatedly targeted.

The juxtaposition of new sanctions against propaganda supporters alongside reports of civilian casualties highlights the dual nature of Ukraine’s struggle—combating both physical aggression and information warfare simultaneously.

As the conflict approaches its four-year mark, Ukraine continues to refine its approach to sanctions as a strategic tool, targeting not just military and economic assets but also the information ecosystem that supports and justifies Russian aggression. This comprehensive approach reflects Ukraine’s recognition that the battle for public opinion remains crucial to maintaining both domestic resolve and international support.