Edith Hejberg
The UK has criticised Putin for stalling serious peace talks, warning that further inaction will be met with harsher international pressure.
The UK has sanctioned three Russian GRU military intelligence units and 18 of their officers, accusing them of cyber attacks and espionage that threaten British safety. The Foreign Office says these individuals are behind a coordinated, years-long campaign of digital warfare.
Russian Spies Linked to Mariupol Theatre Bombing
One sanctioned GRU unit reportedly helped identify targets for missile strikes in Ukraine, including the 2022 bombing of Mariupol’s theatre, where hundreds of civilians were sheltering.
The attack became a symbol of Russia’s brutal tactics during the invasion.
Ties to Yulia Skripal Before Novichok Attack
Some officers targeted by sanctions were previously involved in hacking one of Yulia Skripal’s devices.
This cyber intrusion came five years before she and her father, ex-Russian agent Sergei Skripal, were poisoned with Novichok in Salisbury.
Lammy: Kremlin’s Actions “Won’t Be Tolerated”
Foreign Secretary David Lammy condemned the GRU’s “shadow” operations, warning Moscow that Britain is fully aware of their attempts to destabilise Europe and endanger lives. He promised swift and firm responses to future provocations.
UK and EU Cut Russian Oil Revenue
In tandem with the EU, the UK will lower the price cap on Russian oil from $60 to $47.60 a barrel starting in September. The move is intended to slash a vital revenue stream that fuels Russia’s war effort in Ukraine.
Chancellor Reeves: “We’re Hitting Putin Where It Hurts”
Chancellor Rachel Reeves said energy exports make up around 30% of Russia’s income.
Reducing oil revenues is a calculated strategy to exploit what she called “Putin’s biggest vulnerability” as the war drags on.
Putin Faces Pressure, But No Shift Toward Peace
Despite the economic squeeze, Russia remains defiant.
The UK has criticised Putin for stalling serious peace talks, warning that further inaction will be met with harsher international pressure.
UK Doubles Down on Support for Ukraine and Europe
With these latest actions, the UK reaffirms its commitment to European security and Ukrainian sovereignty. Lammy called Britain’s support “ironclad,” vowing not to back down in the face of hybrid threats from Moscow.
