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New Zealand Sanctions Russia’s Shadow Fleet and Arms Networks in Iran, Belarus, North Korea

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Photo of Dariia Mykhailenko
Dariia Mykhailenko
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New Zealand Sanctions Russia’s Shadow Fleet and Arms Networks in Iran, Belarus, North Korea
The New Zealand flag flies during the Ataturk Memorial Service at Ataturk Memorial in Wellington, New Zealand on April 25, 2018. (Source: Getty Images)

New Zealand has announced a new round of sanctions targeting Russia, Belarus, Iran, and North Korea, expanding its pressure campaign against states supporting or enabling Moscow’s war efforts.

According to an official statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs published on June 19, the sanctions list includes ten individuals and eight entities connected to Russia’s military-industrial complex.

It also targets political figures and actors from Iran, Belarus, and North Korea, who support Russia`s full0scale war against Ukraine.

Additionally, New Zealand sanctioned 27 vessels believed to be part of Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet” — used to circumvent international restrictions and sustain its energy exports.

According to Ukrinform, New Zealand has introduced over 35 rounds of sanctions since March 2022, targeting Russian companies and individuals, along with foreign entities and persons, for their involvement in or support of Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine.

Earlier, Shan-Le Kearns, a 26-year-old New Zealand volunteer who came to Ukraine to assist in evacuating the wounded, has been killed in action. His family confirmed the news to New Zealand outlet 1News, stating that although Kearns was not serving directly on the front lines, he had completed basic training upon arrival and was helping evacuate injured soldiers from the battlefield.

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