Sanctions Against Russia and Funding for Ukraine: Partners Support Ukraine on February 24

24.02.2026

On the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, Australia and the United Kingdom expressed their support for Ukraine. Australia introduced its largest sanctions package against Russia since 2022. The United Kingdom announced new financial assistance for Ukraine.

A man walks past a building suffering from limited electricity in Kyiv
A man walks past a building suffering from limited electricity in Kyiv on February 18, 2026/Getty Images

Australia’s Sanctions

Australia imposed a new round of sanctions targeting Russia. This marks the most extensive package of restrictions introduced since February 2022. The measures apply to 180 individuals, entities, and vessels linked to Russia.

The sanctions target Russia’s financial and banking sectors, as well as its defense, aviation, oil and gas, transport, and technology industries. The goal is to reduce Russia’s revenues and limit its ability to continue the war against Ukraine.

According to the official statement, Russia’s banking and financial sectors facilitate the procurement of technology and equipment necessary to sustain the invasion. Meanwhile, the oil and gas and transport sectors generate substantial income for the Russian government. The aviation and defense industries directly contribute to Russia’s military capabilities. Sanctions against Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet” are designed to undermine its war economy by disrupting efforts to circumvent international restrictions.

For the first time, Australia has also targeted cryptocurrency organizations that help Russia evade sanctions. As of 2026, Australia has imposed more than 1,800 sanctions against Russia. The government stated that it continues to coordinate closely with Ukraine and international partners through the Coalition of the Willing.

“Today and everyday, Australia will continue to push for a just and lasting peace that upholds Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, supports security and stability in Europe, and ensures Russia does not renew its aggression,” the statement reads.

United Kingdom’s Assistance

The United Kingdom announced a new support package for Ukraine, including funding for emergency energy repairs, humanitarian aid, and medical assistance.

London will allocate £20 million to support Ukraine’s energy system. The funding will cover urgent repairs, protection against further damage, and efforts to increase generating capacity. Since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion, total UK support for Ukraine’s energy sector has exceeded £490 million.

In addition, the UK will provide £5.7 million in humanitarian assistance to frontline communities. The country was the largest donor to the Ukraine Humanitarian Fund in 2025. The package also includes the continuation of a medical mentoring program aimed at helping Ukrainian service members return to duty or transition to civilian life. Furthermore, the United Kingdom intends to allocate funding for justice initiatives related to accountability for Russian war crimes.

Earlier, The Ukrainian Review reported that UK Defence Secretary John Healey had expressed willingness to deploy British troops to Ukraine, describing such a move as a potential signal of the war’s conclusion.

Author: Yuliia Bazhenova | View all publications by the author