Switzerland has expanded its sanctions lists against Russia over the war in Ukraine, adding nine individuals and 45 entities to its restrictions.
The Swiss government press service announced the decision, updating the nation's economic measures against Moscow. The Federal Office for Economic Affairs adopted the changes on August 10, and the new restrictions took effect at 11:00 p.m. on August 11.
The updated list includes senior figures from Russia's defense sector. Among those sanctioned are Rostec Executive Director Oleg Yevtushenko, Rostec Chief Executive Advisor Oleksiy Rakhmanov, and Advanced Research Foundation General Director Maksym Vakshtein.
Swiss authorities also sanctioned 45 legal entities, targeting companies linked to providing services for the Russian shadow fleet. Regulators additionally updated existing entries for 11 individuals and firms already under sanction.
Sanctions on defense officials and shipping
Switzerland, while not a member of the European Union, has regularly mirrored EU sanctions implemented after Russia launched its war against Ukraine. The Federal Office for Economic Affairs administers and enforces these restrictions. State enterprise Rostec oversees key defense production for Moscow, while the Advanced Research Foundation manages military scientific projects.
Alignment with European Union measures
The Swiss update follows a series of measures introduced by the European Union. The EU approved its 20th sanctions package on April 23, 2026, targeting Russian oil and gas, the financial sector, defense manufacturing, and trade. European leaders subsequently adopted several smaller sanctions packages.
On June 15, the EU sanctioned 34 individuals and 47 companies for supporting the Russian war effort, aiding in embargo evasion, and conducting hybrid attacks against Europe. The bloc then sanctioned the ABS Electro group on July 17.
European Union member states agreed on a 21st sanctions package against Russia on July 23. That package targeted 32 Russian banks, cryptocurrency firms, oil trading platforms, and vessels assisting the Russian shadow fleet.
