On 13 March 2026, the European Commission published a new set of Frequently Asked Questions (“FAQs”, accessible here) clarifying the scope and application of EU sanctions restrictions on the provision of payment services under Article 5b(2) of Council Regulation (EU) No 833/2014, as amended (the “EU Russia Sanctions”). Article 5b(2) of the EU Russia Sanctions prohibits the provision of certain payment services to Russian nationals and natural and legal persons, entities and bodies in Russia…
On 23 January 2026, the European Commission released new FAQ guidance providing clarifications for operators navigating the EU’s expanding Russia sanctions framework. Notably, the European Commission updated their Consolidated FAQs on Sanctions against Russia and Belarus (the “FAQs”, accessible here) with guidance on the Nord Stream transaction ban and the EU’s 19th sanctions package, summarized below. I. Clarifications on the Nord Stream Transaction Ban (Article 5af, Regulation 833/2014) The EU has published dedicated FAQs interpreting…
On November 12, 2025, Canada announced further amendments to the Special Economic Measures (Russia) Regulations (the Regulations). These amendments list an additional 13 individuals and 11 entities under Schedule 1 of the Regulations and took effect on November 6, 2025. These newly listed entities and individuals are stated to enable Russia’s energy sector and hybrid warfare strategies, including suppliers of cyber infrastructure and companies linked to liquefied natural gas operations that help finance military activities.…
Following the EU’s 18th sanctions package and the latest developments of the UK’s sanctions against Russia, the Governments of Australia and Japan also introduced additional measures against Russia respectively on 18 and 12 September 2025. Among other measures, they have agreed with other G7 countries to phase out Russian oil imports in response to the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, indicating aligned efforts within the G7 with respect to the imposition of sanctions against Russia. This…