"Targeting Pro-Russian Figures?" US Sanctions 4 Senior Ukrainian Officials for 'Russian Cooperation'

[Asia Economy New York=Special Correspondent Joselgina] On the 20th (local time), the U.S. administration under Joe Biden imposed sanctions on four individuals, including Ukrainian lawmakers, who are suspected of spreading disinformation under the direction of Russian intelligence agencies. This move is seen as an effort to target pro-Russian figures amid escalating tensions over the possibility of a Russian invasion of Ukraine.

According to economic media CNBC and others, the U.S. Treasury Department designated four individuals for sanctions: Ukrainian lawmakers Taras Kozak and Ole Voloshyn, and former Ukrainian officials Volodymyr Oliynyk and Vladymyr Sivkovych.

The sanctions drew particular attention as they followed President Biden's statement that the U.S. and its allies would respond with overwhelming force if Russia invades Ukraine. The Treasury Department believes these individuals have played roles in destabilizing Ukraine under the orders of Russian intelligence agencies.

Wally Adeyemo, Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Treasury, said, "The United States is taking measures to counter Russia's threatening influence and the spread of disinformation in Ukraine." In particular, lawmaker Kozak is suspected of interfering in foreign elections, including the 2020 U.S. presidential election, under Russian direction.

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