Executive Briefing: U.S. Government Imposes New Round of Sanctions on Russia
On February 24, 2023, the Biden Administration issued a package of sanctions, export controls, and tariffs against Russia, an action timed to coincide with the one-year anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The U.S. measures, which also target Belarus and Iran in certain respects, were implemented in concert with related UK and EU actions.
Sanctions
The U.S. Department of the Treasury, Office of Foreign Assets Control (“OFAC”) designated 22 individuals and 83 entities for asset freeze sanctions, and issued a determination that the Russian metals and mining sector is subject to sanctions under Executive Order 14024. As a result, U.S. persons are prohibited from engaging in transactions and dealings with the 105 newly sanctioned parties and are required to freeze their assets. Furthermore, individuals and entities that OFAC determines are “operating” in the Russian metals and mining sector are subject to potential designation for asset freeze sanctions.
Moreover, OFAC issued FAQ guidance indicating that U.S. persons seeking to divest from Russian investments may need a license from OFAC before paying any recently required “exit tax” to the Russian government under Russian law, potentially complicating divestment efforts.
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