Sanctions Imposed by Zelenskyy Target Russian Judges and Media Outlets – 29 Individuals Listed.

New Sanctions Against Russian Judiciary and Media

According to UATV: On June 12, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a decree imposing sanctions on Russian judges and media entities involved in persecuting Ukrainians and spreading disinformation. The sanctions package covers 29 individuals and 17 legal entities. Among those named is Moscow judge Timur Vakhrameyev.

Media outlets hit with restrictions include:

• Gazeta.Ru
• Lenta.Ru
• The Union of Journalists of Russia

Commenting on the move, Vladyslav Vlasiuk stated:

“We believe that all those involved in the persecution of Ukrainians and the spread of Russian propaganda must be held accountable for their actions.” – Vladyslav Vlasiuk.

Human Rights Situation in Ukraine

A significant event highlighting the persecution of Ukrainian journalists is the death of Viktoriia Roshchyna, a Ukrainian journalist who died in Russian captivity. Her death became known on October 10, 2024. Roshchyna’s body, showing signs of torture, was returned to Ukraine in February 2025. These events underscore the gravity of the human rights and free speech crisis amid the armed conflict.

The sanctions are part of broader efforts by Ukrainian authorities to protect citizens’ rights and combat Russian propaganda. This decision aims not only to punish those responsible for persecution but also to send a clear message that human rights violations are unacceptable.

Targeting Russian judges and media, these sanctions represent a critical step in Ukraine’s fight for its rights and freedoms. They reaffirm the state’s commitment to defending its citizens and countering information aggression. Ukraine’s actions may encourage the international community to better understand the human rights situation in the country and the urgent need to resist disinformation.