Canada expands sanctions on Russia, targeting drone, cyber, and energy sectors

Canada has introduced a new batch of sanctions against Russia, targeting 24 individuals and entities, as well as 100 ships from Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet,” Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand said on Nov. 12.

The list targets 24 individuals and entities, along with 100 maritime vessels from Russia’s covert fleet of oil tankers, Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand said on Nov. 12. 

Specifically, the measures include 13 individuals and 11 organizations that are involved in developing and deploying Russia’s drone program, as well as companies supplying cyber infrastructure used in hybrid operations against Ukraine.

The sanctions for the first time target entities that provide digital infrastructure for Russian military and hybrid strategies. Additionally, several companies involved in liquefied natural gas trade were included in the restrictions.

“Canada remains unwavering in its commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and its people, who are forcefully defending their rights in the face of Putin’s corrosive and aggressive actions. Canada will continue to intensify pressure through sanctions in coordination with allies and partners until Russia puts an end to its unjustified invasion of Ukraine,” Anand said.

The announcement coincided with the G7 Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Canada this week, which focused on strengthening military and economic support for Ukraine.

Ukraine’s Foreign Affairs Minister Andriy Sybiha, who attended the summit, said that Russia still holds the illusion it can achieve victory, but in reality, it has lost more than a million soldiers and has failed to accomplish any strategic objectives.

“The international community must make continuing the war unbearable and dangerous for Putin and his regime,” Sybiha said.

Earlier, Ukrainian World Congress President Paul Grod met with Sybiha and Ukrainian Ambassador to Canada Andrii Plakhotniuk in Toronto.