The U.S. Imposes Sanctions on Russian Oligarchs

Reuters has reported, citing sources, that the United States will impose new sanctions against Russia this week due to allegations of interference in U.S. elections, targeting a group of oligarchs close to the Russian government. The U.S. intelligence community has accused the Russian government of interfering in the 2016 U.S. presidential elections, a claim that Russia has repeatedly denied. Washington has imposed sanctions on Russian officials and entities in recent months. In February of last year, reports emerged regarding the preparation of a list of individuals known as oligarchs or 'clique leaders' close to the Kremlin and President Vladimir Putin, with U.S. officials stating that these individuals have gained their wealth and power through their connections to Putin. Shortly thereafter, the Treasury Department released this list, known as the 'Kremlin Report,' which included names that were said to 'possibly' be subject to U.S. sanctions. Steven Mnuchin, the U.S. Treasury Secretary, emphasized at the end of February that he would impose sanctions on a number of wealthy citizens and Russian oligarchs 'in the near future.' However, at that time, there were criticisms and reactions within the U.S. regarding this list; Congress criticized the Treasury Department for not imposing sanctions on at least some individuals on the list at that time. The Treasury Department acknowledged that the published list was largely compiled from public news sources, including the names of Russian billionaires in Forbes magazine, a point that was challenged by some lawmakers and others. On March 14, the Trump administration announced sanctions against five Russian entities and 19 individuals in connection with Russia's interference in U.S. elections. Now, Reuters reports that the new sanctions are a continuation of the March sanctions and target some Russian oligarchs, including individuals said to have close ties to Mr. Putin and the Russian government. These sanctions are imposed under a law known as 'CATSA,' which was enacted due to allegations against Moscow regarding the annexation of Crimea, interventions in Syria, and interference in U.S. elections. Russia has not yet responded to this report. Vladimir Putin, on January 30, described the U.S. action in response to the release of the 'Kremlin Report' as a 'hostile act' but stated that Moscow has not yet decided on a reciprocal action. Officials speaking to Reuters say the new sanctions are likely to be announced on Thursday, April 5, U.S. time.