The British government has expanded the list of sanctions against Russia by 40 entities, including energy companies and banks, accused of circumventing international restrictions.

The British government has announced a new round of economic sanctions against Russia, adding 40 individuals and entities to the sanctions list. Among them are energy giants such as Rosneft and Lukoil, as well as Russian banks like Solid Bank and BBR Bank. The new measures also target companies with ties to the defense industry, accused of supporting Russia's efforts to circumvent international sanctions. The British government has warned that violating these sanctions will be considered a criminal offense.

The decision comes in the context of Western allies seeking ways to use frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine. The European Union has blocked approximately 200 billion euros of the Russian central bank's assets, and the European Commission is proposing a compromise plan to borrow 140 billion euros, secured by these assets, to help Ukraine. The Kremlin has condemned this plan, threatening retaliatory measures. The UK and Canada support the initiative, which could be approved at the European leaders' summit in Brussels.