New Ukraine Sanctions: 24 People, 17 Entities

Summary#

These final regulations amend the Special Economic Measures (Ukraine) Regulations to add people and organizations to Canada’s Ukraine sanctions list. The change adds 24 individuals and 17 entities, and the amendments came into force on June 8, 2023 (the day they were registered).

What it does#

• Adds 24 individuals and 17 entities to Schedule 1 of the Special Economic Measures (Ukraine) Regulations, which puts them under Canada’s broad dealings ban (an effective asset freeze).
• Targets people and groups linked to the theft or destruction of Ukrainian cultural property, newly created Russian‑controlled institutions in occupied areas, and private military companies operating from Ukraine.
• The names will be published and added to the Consolidated Canadian Autonomous Sanctions List so banks and others can screen and block dealings.
• Enforcement responsibilities are noted for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Canada Border Services Agency, and violations carry penalties including fines and jail time (see Who’s affected for amounts).

Who's affected#

• The 24 named individuals and 17 named entities added to the list. The Canada Gazette posting includes the names and organizational listings.
• People and businesses in Canada, and Canadians outside Canada, who might otherwise deal with those listed. They are prohibited from providing funds, services, or other economic support to listed persons.
• Financial institutions and businesses that must screen customers and transactions. They may face small compliance costs to update monitoring systems.
• The public at large is unlikely to be directly affected unless they have financial or business ties to the listed people or entities.

Why it matters#

• Being added to Schedule 1 means a person or organization can have property frozen in Canada and be blocked from receiving services or transactions from Canadians.
• The measure is part of Canada’s response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. These listings aim to punish those who support the occupation, the theft or destruction of Ukrainian cultural heritage, or private military activity, and to align Canada with the sanctions of allied countries.
• For most Canadians, the practical impact is limited to increased screening by banks and possible delays or restrictions if they try to do business with a newly listed person or group.
• Breaking the rules can lead to a summary conviction fine of up to $25,000, or jail for up to one year, or, on indictment, jail for up to five years.