President Joe Biden announced on Tuesday that the United States would unveil a significant set of sanctions against Russia on Friday, citing reasons including the death of opposition figure Alexei Navalny and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Although Biden did not provide specific details while speaking to reporters before departing on a trip to California, White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan outlined that the upcoming sanctions would encompass various aspects. These measures are intended to target not only Russia's defense and industrial sectors but also other sources contributing to the country's economic revenue.
According to White House national security spokesperson John Kirby, this sanctions package aims to hold Russia accountable for the circumstances surrounding Mr. Navalny's fate and its actions throughout the Ukraine conflict.
Furthermore, a senior US official indicated that plans for sanctions were already in motion to coincide with the second anniversary of the Ukraine war. However, in light of Navalny's recent passing, these plans are under review and will likely be supplemented accordingly.
Treasury Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, Brian Nelson, is currently engaged in discussions regarding sanctions related to Navalny's death during his trip to Europe this week, as confirmed by two sources familiar with the situation. Apart from addressing Navalny's case, Nelson is also exploring options to target individuals or entities supporting Russia's war production, even if located in third countries.
Washington's stance on imposing sanctions has been robust, particularly following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Previous sanctions have targeted various Russian officials, banks, and entities, including President Vladimir Putin himself.
Moreover, the US has previously taken action in response to the poisoning and subsequent imprisonment of Navalny in 2020, focusing on individuals affiliated with Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) and other governmental figures.
Navalny's sudden demise at the "Polar Wolf" penal colony in the Arctic Circle, where he was serving a lengthy sentence, has raised significant concerns. The US government, led by Biden, has squarely blamed Putin and his administration for Navalny's death, emphasizing the need for full transparency regarding the circumstances surrounding it.
According to Kirby, the US Embassy in Moscow has been actively seeking additional information about Navalny's passing, yet obtaining reliable details from Russian authorities has proven challenging. Kirby emphasized the responsibility of Putin and the Russian government for the events leading to Navalny's demise.
