Table of Contents
European Union
Russia
On 3 July 2026, the Council of the European Union adopted Council Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/1541 of 3 July 2026 implementing Regulation (EU) 2018/1542 concerning restrictive measures against the proliferation and use of chemical weapons. Pursuant to the Regulation, Annex I to Regulation 2018/1542 is amended to include six natural persons linked to the development of epibatidine and, therefore, to the proliferation and use of chemical weapons.
Furthermore, the decision follows the investigation into the death of Alexei Navalny and the confirmation of the presence of epibatidine in post-mortem samples, linking poisoning with that substance to his death. The six listed persons (Igor Babkin, Sergey Galan, Irina Derevyagina, Mikhail Gutsalyuk, Olga Yudina and Aleksey Aksyonov) are identified by biographical information and statements of reasons and are subject to the restrictive measures provided for in Regulation 2018/1542; the Regulation enters into force on the date of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union and is directly applicable in the Member States.
On 3 July 2026, the Council of the European Union adopted Decision (CFSP) 2026/1542 amending Decision (CFSP) 2018/1544 concerning restrictive measures against the proliferation and use of chemical weapons.
Under the Decision, six natural persons are added to the sanctions list for their alleged involvement in the development of epibatidine, a substance found in samples linked to the death of Alexei Navalny. The newly designated persons include Igor Yuryevich Babkin, Sergey Yevgenyevich Galan, Irina Dmitriyevna Derevyagina, Mikhail Vasilyevich Gutsalyuk, Olga Petrovna Yudina and Aleksey Vadimovich Aksyonov.
The reason stated by the Council is that these persons are alleged to have participated in research, synthesis or work relating to epibatidine, and some of them are associated with SC Signal or other scientific centres within the Russian military sphere. The EU considers that such activity contributes to the development of chemical weapons; the listed persons are therefore subject to an asset freeze and a travel ban within the Union.
In practical terms, this expands the European chemical-weapons sanctions regime and expressly links these designations to the investigation into the substance which the Council considers connected with Navalny’s death. The measure enters into force upon publication and updates the annexed list to include these new names.
On page 11, in the Annex, entry 2, column ‘Name’, for ‘IPJSC NTK alias International Public Joint-Stock Company NTK alias NTH International Joint Stock Company (Russian: МКАО NTKh, MKAO НТХ, MKAO NTH, MKAO NTKh)’ read: ‘IPJSC NTK alias International Public Joint-Stock Company NTK alias NTH International Joint Stock Company alias MKAO NTKh alias MKAO NTH’.
On 9 July 2026, a corrigendum to Decision (CFSP) 2026/1363 of 15 June 2026 amending Decision (CFSP) 2024/1484 concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Russia was published (OJ L, 2026/1363, 15.6.2026). On page 11, in the Annex, entry 2, column ‘Name’, for ‘IPJSC NTK alias International Public Joint-Stock Company NTK alias NTH International Joint Stock Company (Russian: МКАО NTKh, MKAO НТХ, MKAO NTH, MKAO NTKh)’ read ‘IPJSC NTK alias International Public Joint-Stock Company NTK alias NTH International Joint Stock Company alias MKAO NTKh alias MKAO NTH (Russian: МКАО НТХ)’.
On 13 July 2026, Council Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/1708 of 13 July 2026 implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/1485 concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Russia was published.
Council Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/1708 of 13 July 2026 amends Annex IV to Regulation (EU) 2024/1485 by adding eleven natural persons and five entities to the list of restrictive measures applicable in relation to the situation in Russia. According to the recitals of the act itself, the measure is based on considerations relating to developments in the human-rights situation, the use of certain surveillance systems and the role attributed to various persons and entities in that context.
The entities added include VK, Communication Platform LLC, VAS Experts, Norsi-Trans and LLC Citadel, while the natural persons added perform functions connected with prison administration, technology services or structures related to supervision and control. The measure therefore broadens the personal scope of the restrictive regime without amending its general legal basis.
The list of natural persons includes: Elena Gennadyevna Bagudina; Dmitry Valerianovich Gachko; Sergey Anatolevich Ovchinnikov; Mikhail Mikhailovich Fomin; Alexander Vladimirovich Gnutov; Alexei Vladimirovich Anashkin; Egor Viktorovich Averkin; Alexander Anatolevich Grishanin; Semyon Viktorovich Kuznetsov; Ivan Vasilyevich Veshkin; and Galina Vasilievna Mokshanova.
Council Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/1710 of 13 July 2026 amends Annex I to Regulation (EU) 2024/2642 concerning restrictive measures in view of destabilising activities linked to Russia. The measure adds one natural person to the sanctions list following the European Council’s conclusions of June 2026 on the increase in hybrid attacks and the need to strengthen the Union’s resilience.
The person listed is Ivan Sergeevich Kasyanenko, deputy commander and senior officer of the GRU Special Operations Service (SSD), holding the rank of lieutenant general. According to the act, he is considered responsible for operations connected with Unit 29155, including activities relating to Afghanistan, the poisoning of Sergei and Yulia Skripal in 2018, covert activities in Europe, the coordination of Wagner Group networks in Africa and military-technical cooperation with Iran.
In legal terms, the Regulation broadens the personal scope of the existing restrictive regime without changing its general structure and is directly applicable in all Member States from the date of its publication.
On 16 July 2026, Council Regulation (EU) 2026/1805 amending Regulation (EU) No 833/2014 concerning restrictive measures in view of Russia’s actions destabilising the situation in Ukraine was adopted.
The measure postpones the application of the mechanism for adjusting the price cap on Russian crude oil. The Regulation inserts a new paragraph into Article 3m of Regulation (EU) No 833/2014, providing that the Commission’s notice concerning the average market price of Russian crude oil over a 22-week period, from 15 January to 17 June 2026, will be published on 23 July 2026 and that the amendment to Annex XXVIII will apply from 15 August 2026.
The purpose of the postponement is to give the Council more time to examine and adopt any amendment that may be necessary in the light of market developments, thereby ensuring an orderly and well-founded decision-making process. In the meantime, the current price cap will continue to apply until the new price cap takes effect.
On 16 July 2026, Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/1804 amending Decision 2014/512/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of Russia’s actions destabilising the situation in Ukraine was adopted.
The measure postpones the date of application of the mechanism for amending the price cap on Russian crude oil. The Decision inserts a new paragraph into Article 4p of Decision 2014/512/CFSP, providing that the Commission’s notice concerning the average market price of Russian crude oil over a 22-week period, from 15 January to 17 June 2026, will be published on 23 July 2026 and that the amendment to Annex XXVIII to Regulation (EU) No 833/2014 will apply from 15 August 2026.
The postponement is intended to give the Council more time to examine and adopt any amendment that may be necessary in the light of market developments, thereby ensuring an orderly and well-founded decision-making process. The current price cap will continue to apply until the new price cap takes effect.
On 17 July 2026, Council Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/1779 implementing Regulation (EU) No 269/2014 concerning restrictive measures in respect of actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine was published.
The measure adds one natural person and five entities to the list of persons and entities subject to restrictive measures in Annex I to Regulation (EU) No 269/2014. The listings target persons and companies associated with the ABS Electro group of companies and JSC VNIIR-Progress, which are involved in developing and manufacturing electronic and radio-electronic components used in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, in particular the Kometa antenna used in Shahed and Geran unmanned aerial vehicles and in guided-bomb equipment.
The measure also affects energy-sector entities supplying equipment to oil and gas refining, storage and transportation facilities operated by major Russian companies, a sector which provides a substantial source of revenue to the Government of the Russian Federation. The Regulation is binding in its entirety and directly applicable in every Member State from the date of its publication.
On 17 July 2026, Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/1780 amending Decision 2014/145/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in respect of actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine was adopted.
The measure adds one natural person and five entities to the list of persons and entities subject to restrictive measures in the Annex to Decision 2014/145/CFSP. The listings concern the same persons and companies as Council Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/1779, associated with the ABS Electro group of companies and JSC VNIIR-Progress, which are involved in developing and manufacturing electronic and radio-electronic components used in Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, in particular the Kometa antenna used in Shahed and Geran unmanned aerial vehicles and in guided-bomb equipment.
The Decision is the Common Foreign and Security Policy counterpart to the aforementioned implementing regulation and enters into force on the date of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.
On 22 July 2026, a corrigendum to Council Decision (CFSP) 2025/1495 of 18 July 2025 amending Decision 2014/512/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of Russia’s actions destabilising the situation in Ukraine was published in the Official Journal (OJ L, 2025/1495, 19.7.2025). It introduces a series of technical adjustments and corrections to legal references to ensure the proper application of the restrictive measures relating to Russia and the war in Ukraine. It does not alter the substance of the sanctions.
On 23 July 2026, Council Regulation (EU) 2026/1844 of 23 July 2026 amending Council Regulation (EU) No 269/2014 concerning restrictive measures in respect of actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine was adopted together with Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/1845 of 23 July 2026 amending Decision 2014/145/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in respect of actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine.
The Regulation amends Regulation (EU) No 269/2014 by introducing new exemptions and adjustments to the EU sanctions regime against Russia. In particular, subject to strict conditions, it permits the release of certain frozen funds to make insurance payments, fulfil contractual obligations predating the imposition of sanctions, ensure the continuity of rail transport between the EU and Russia, and support the Paks II nuclear project in Hungary. It also strengthens the protection of EU operators against Russian claims and court decisions arising from the sanctions by extending the right to compensation and prohibiting the recognition and enforcement in the EU of certain judgments issued by Russian courts in relation to contracts affected by the restrictive measures.
On the same date, Council Regulation (EU) 2026/1848 of 23 July 2026 amending Regulation (EU) No 833/2014 concerning restrictive measures in view of Russia’s actions destabilising the situation in Ukraine was adopted together with Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/1849 of 23 July 2026 amending Decision 2014/512/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of Russia’s actions destabilising the situation in Ukraine. These measures strengthen the EU’s sanctions against Russia by expanding restrictions on exports of dual-use goods and technology and components with military applications, adding new entities linked to Russia’s military-industrial complex to the sanctions list and imposing further restrictions on imports of products which generate revenue for Russia. They also tighten measures concerning the energy sector, particularly oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG).
Also on 23 July, Council Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/1843 of 23 July 2026 implementing Regulation (EU) No 269/2014 concerning restrictive measures in respect of actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine was adopted. It updates Regulation (EU) No 269/2014 to strengthen EU sanctions in response to the continuation and intensification of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. In particular, it expands the list of persons and entities subject to restrictive measures by adding 48 persons and 168 entities, with the aim of increasing pressure on Russia and limiting its capacity to sustain the war, especially following attacks against Ukrainian civilian infrastructure.
Cybersecurity
On 13 July 2026, Council Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/1714 of 13 July 2026 was published, amending Annex I to Regulation (EU) 2019/796 concerning restrictive measures against cyber-attacks threatening the Union or its Member States. The measure adds eight natural persons and four entities to the sanctions list as part of the EU’s response to actors associated with cyber-attacks having a significant effect.
The persons listed include Vitaly Nikolayevich Kovalev, Alexander Alexandrovich Volosovik, Denis Olegovich Degtyarenko, Yuliya Vladimirovna Pankratova, Maksim Evgenevich Voronin, Maksim Aleksandrovich Gordienko, Evgeniy Viktorovich Bashev and Roman Alexandrovich Puntus. The entities added are Media Land LLC, ML.Cloud, ‘Impuls’ LLC and Z-Pentest.
Human Rights
On 13 July 2026, Council Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/1720 of 13 July 2026 was published, amending Annex I to Regulation (EU) 2020/1998 by adding eight natural persons and one entity to the Union’s list of restrictive measures in the field of human rights. The measure was adopted under the EU’s Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime and, according to the text itself, is based on conduct relating to the treatment of Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilian detainees.
The persons listed are Alexei Khavetsky, Artem Potapchuk, Dmitry Neelov, Kirill Shakurov, Vasiliy Bakalinskiy, Vyacheslav Yakurnov, Yan Zanevsky and Yuri Dmytrenko. The entity added is Taganrog Pre-Trial Detention Centre No 2, known as ‘SIZO-2’.
Haiti
On 13 July 2026, Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/1438 of 10 July 2026 amending Decision (CFSP) 2022/2319 concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Haiti was published.
Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/1438 of 10 July 2026 amends Decision (CFSP) 2022/2319 concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Haiti. The principal change is the extension of those measures until 29 July 2027 by replacing the date originally laid down in Article 8(2).
Non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and non-state actors
On 13 July 2026, Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/1704 of 10 July 2026 in support of the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1540 (2004) on the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery to non-state actors was published.
The Council of the EU adopted Decision (CFSP) 2026/1704 of 10 July 2026, supporting the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1540 (2004), which is intended to prevent non-state actors from gaining access to weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery.
The measure funds capacity-building workshops, training for regional points of contact, simulation exercises, support for national action plans and knowledge dissemination. It will be implemented by the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) and has a budget of EUR 1,999,934.66.
The Decision enters into force on the date of its adoption and expires 36 months after the agreement with UNODA, or after six months if that agreement has not been concluded beforehand.
Cyber-attacks
On 13 July 2026, Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/1713 of 13 July 2026 amending Decision (CFSP) 2019/797 concerning restrictive measures against cyber-attacks threatening the Union or its Member States was published.
Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/1713 of 13 July 2026 amends Decision (CFSP) 2019/797 concerning restrictive measures against cyber-attacks threatening the Union or its Member States. The update adds eight natural persons and four entities to the Annex to the Decision as part of the Union’s response to cyber-attacks having a significant effect. The natural persons added are Vitaly Nikolayevich Kovalev, Alexander Alexandrovich Volosovik, Denis Olegovich Degtyarenko, Yuliya Vladimirovna Pankratova, Maksim Evgenevich Voronin, Maksim Aleksandrovich Gordienko, Evgeniy Viktorovich Bashev and Roman Alexandrovich Puntus. The entities added are Media Land LLC, ML.Cloud, ‘Impuls’ LLC and Z-Pentest.
Middle East
On 13 July 2026, Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/1729 of 10 July 2026 in support of a zone free of weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East in a dynamic regional security environment was published.
Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/1729 of 10 July 2026 maintains the European Union’s support for the establishment of a zone free of weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East. The measure is implemented through a UNIDIR project with an intended duration of 36 months and reference funding of EUR 2,000,001.
The project will focus on non-proliferation, disarmament, peaceful cooperation, verification and safeguards through research, dialogue and capacity-building activities.
On 14 July 2026, Council Regulation (EU) 2026/1724 of 13 July 2026 amending Regulation (EU) 2023/2147 concerning restrictive measures in view of activities undermining the stability and political transition of Sudan was adopted.
Council Regulation (EU) 2026/1724 of 13 July 2026 amends the restrictive-measures regime relating to Sudan by extending prohibitions concerning gold and certain goods used in gold mining. The Regulation prohibits the purchase, import, transfer, sale, supply and export of those products and the provision of related assistance, and introduces a temporary exemption for certain pre-existing contracts.
Council Regulation (EU) 2026/1724 of 13 July 2026 amending Regulation (EU) 2023/2147 concerning restrictive measures in view of activities undermining the stability and political transition of Sudan was also adopted. Council Regulation (EU) 2026/1724 of 13 July 2026 amends the restrictive-measures regime relating to Sudan by extending prohibitions concerning gold and certain goods used in gold mining. The Regulation prohibits the purchase, import, transfer, sale, supply and export of those products and the provision of related assistance, and introduces a temporary exemption for certain pre-existing contracts.
On 24 July 2027, Council Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/1851 of 24 July 2026 implementing Regulation (EU) No 359/2011 concerning restrictive measures directed against certain persons, entities and bodies in view of the situation in Iran was published in the Official Journal of the European Union. That Regulation was adopted together with Council Implementing Decision (CFSP) 2026/1850 of 24 July 2026 implementing Decision 2011/235/CFSP concerning restrictive measures directed against certain persons and entities in view of the situation in Iran. The act adds six persons to the list of sanctioned persons. These measures entail an update to Annex I to Regulation (EU) No 359/2011.
On the same date, the EU adopted Council Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/1838 of 24 July 2026 implementing Regulation (EU) No 267/2012 concerning restrictive measures against Iran, together with Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/1836 of 24 July 2026 amending Decision 2010/413/CFSP concerning restrictive measures against Iran. Following the review of Annex II to Decision 2010/413/CFSP, three previously designated persons are removed from Annex IX to the Regulation, the restrictive measures continue to apply to the remaining listed persons and entities, and the information concerning one sanctioned entity is updated.
Council Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/1853 of 24 July 2026 implementing Regulation (EU) 2023/1529 concerning restrictive measures in view of Iran’s military support for Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and for armed groups and entities in the Middle East and the Red Sea region, as well as Iran’s actions undermining freedom of navigation in the Middle East, was also published. It was accompanied by Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/1837 of 24 July 2026 amending Decision (CFSP) 2023/1532 concerning restrictive measures in view of Iran’s military support for Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and for armed groups and entities in the Middle East and the Red Sea region, as well as Iran’s actions undermining freedom of navigation in the Middle East. The act extends the existing restrictive measures until 27 July 2027 and updates the list of sanctioned persons by removing four persons included in Annex III to Regulation (EU) 2023/1529.
Sudan
On 13 July 2026, the Council of the European Union adopted Regulation (EU) 2026/1724 amending Regulation (EU) 2023/2147 concerning restrictive measures in view of activities undermining the stability and political transition of Sudan.
According to the available information, the reform introduces more precise definitions of concepts such as brokering services, financing or financial assistance, and technical assistance. It also adds two key new articles: one prohibiting the purchase, import or transfer of gold originating in Sudan and exported after 15 July 2026; and another prohibiting the sale, supply, transfer or export to Sudan of certain goods which may be used in gold mining or extraction.
The new regime also prohibits the provision of technical assistance, brokering services or financing connected with those transactions, although it provides exemptions for humanitarian purposes, public-health emergencies and disaster relief. In addition, for the product classified under CN code 2837 11, contracts concluded before 15 July 2026 may be performed until 16 January 2027.
In practical terms, the measure seeks to cut off financing for the war in Sudan by targeting the so-called gold economy. It enters into force on the day following its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.
On 13 July 2026, the Council of the European Union adopted Decision (CFSP) 2026/1705 amending Decision (CFSP) 2023/2135 concerning restrictive measures in view of activities undermining the stability and political transition of Sudan.
According to the available information, the Decision introduces two principal measures: it prohibits the purchase, import or transfer of gold originating in Sudan and exported from 15 July 2026; and it also prohibits the sale, supply, transfer or export to Sudan, or for use in Sudan, of certain goods which may be used in gold mining or extraction. The provision of technical assistance, brokering services and financing connected with those transactions is also prohibited.
In practical terms, the objective is to cut off one of the principal sources of financing for the Sudanese conflict by targeting the gold economy which supports the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces. The Decision also provides limited exemptions for diplomatic and humanitarian uses, public-health emergencies and certain pre-existing contracts concerning specific goods, such as those classified under CN code 2837 11.
ISIL (Daesh) and Al-Qaida
The measure amends the identifying information for an existing entry on the list of natural persons subject to the freezing of funds and economic resources. Specifically, it updates the information concerning Hamida Nabaggala, a Ugandan national, by correcting her date of birth from 9 March 1996 to 23 February 1989, replacing the passport number with a national identity document number and adjusting the spelling of her name.
The amendment gives effect to a decision of the United Nations Security Council Sanctions Committee of 8 July 2026 and applies within the Union’s sanctions regime against persons and entities associated with ISIL (Daesh) and Al-Qaida. The Regulation is binding in its entirety and directly applicable in every Member State from the day following its publication.
Lebanon
On 17 July 2026, Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/1767 of 17 July 2026 amending Decision (CFSP) 2021/1277 concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Lebanon was published in the Official Journal. In the first paragraph of Article 9 of Decision (CFSP) 2021/1277, the date ‘31 July 2026’ is replaced by ‘31 July 2027’.
Belarus
On 23 July 2026, Council Regulation (EU) 2026/1846 of 23 July 2026 amending Regulation (EC) No 765/2006 concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Belarus and the involvement of Belarus in the Russian aggression against Ukraine was published together with Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/1847 of 23 July 2026 amending Decision 2012/642/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Belarus and the involvement of Belarus in the Russian aggression against Ukraine.
Both acts amend Regulation (EC) No 765/2006 to strengthen and expand the EU sanctions relating to Belarus because of its support for Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. The principal measures include expanding the list of restricted goods and technologies; imposing new prohibitions on imports of certain minerals, chemicals, glass products and motor-vehicle parts; extending restrictions on the participation of Belarusian nationals in EU crypto-asset service providers; maintaining limited exemptions to ensure the operation of civilian electronic-communications infrastructure and certain pre-existing contracts; and strengthening legal protection for EU operators against claims arising from the application of those sanctions.
On the same date, Council Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/1817 of 23 July 2026 implementing Article 8a(1) of Regulation (EC) No 765/2006 concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Belarus and the involvement of Belarus in the Russian aggression against Ukraine, and Council Implementing Decision (CFSP) 2026/1816 of 23 July 2026 implementing Decision 2012/642/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Belarus and the involvement of Belarus in the Russian aggression against Ukraine, were adopted. The measures amend Regulation (EC) No 765/2006 by adding two legal persons to the list of sanctioned entities, in response to the seriousness of the situation in the country and its involvement in Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.
Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/1847 of 23 July 2026 amending Decision 2012/642/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Belarus and the involvement of Belarus in the Russian aggression against Ukraine strengthens the EU’s restrictive measures against Belarus because of its support for and participation in Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. The act expands restrictions on goods and technologies which may contribute to Belarusian military and defence development, including components used in military systems and drones; introduces further restrictions on imports of certain products which generate revenue for Belarus; maintains exemptions to ensure the operation of civilian electronic-communications networks; expands prohibitions relating to crypto-asset services; and adjusts certain trade and contractual exemptions to facilitate more effective implementation of the sanctions regime.
United States
Russia
On 20 July 2026, ‘Russia-related Designations Updates’ was published. Under that update, OFAC amended the SDN List entries for two Russia-linked entities designated under Executive Order 14024 concerning sanctions for activities supporting the Russian Government. Both entities remain exposed to the risk of US secondary sanctions, meaning that third parties engaging in certain transactions with them may face restrictions.
On 24 July 2026, OFAC issued a new Russia-related general licence, General Licence 131H, authorising certain transactions for the negotiation and potential sale of Lukoil International GmbH; amended Frequently Asked Questions concerning sanctions on Russia and Venezuela; updated administrative regulations; and revised the SDN List. ‘Iran-related Designations; Issuance of Amended Russia-related General License and Frequently Asked Questions; Issuance of Amended Venezuela-related Frequently Asked Question; Publication of Regulatory Amendments’.
Organised Crime
On 1 July 2026, the US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced sanctions against two natural persons and five entities linked to the Brazilian criminal organisation Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC).
The measure designates Victor Henrique de Oliveira Shimada and Stella Stefanie Nunes Henrique de Oliveira, as well as Avenidas Flutuantes Unipessoal Lda of Portugal, Chone Killers of Ecuador, and Pixwave Solucoes de Pagamentos Ltda, Victory Trading Intermediacao de Negocios Cobrancas e Tecnologia Ltda and Wave Construcoes Inteligentes Ltda, all of Brazil. The designations were made under Executive Order 14059 concerning the proliferation of illicit drugs and Executive Order 13224, as amended, concerning counter-terrorism.
According to the US Treasury, Shimada acted as a key intermediary between PCC operators in Florida and foreign drug traffickers and laundered more than USD 30 million in illicit proceeds generated in the United States through the use of cryptocurrency. The designated entities form part of a corporate network controlled by Shimada and used to receive and launder illicit funds. The measure also updates the ISIL-Khorasan entry on the SDN List by adding multiple digital-currency addresses, in Monero and TRX, associated with the terrorist organisation.
As a result of the action, all property and interests in property of the designated persons and entities which are in the United States or in the possession or control of US persons are blocked and must be reported to OFAC.
Middle East
OFAC revoked Iranian General Licence X and issued General Licence X1 with effect from 7 July 2026. The new licence fully replaces the previous authorisation concerning the production, delivery and sale of Iranian-origin crude oil, petrochemical products and petroleum products.
OFAC issued Russia-related General Licence 13R, entitled ‘Authorizing Certain Administrative Transactions Prohibited by Directive 4 under Executive Order 14024’, and updated two related Frequently Asked Questions, FAQs 999 and 1118. The measure forms part of OFAC’s series of technical adjustments to administrative authorisations under the Russia sanctions regime.
On 10 July 2026, the US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced sanctions against eight natural persons and six entities associated with foreign-exchange, commodities-trading and Iran-linked corporate activities.
The measure designates persons and entities operating bureaux de change in Iran, together with trading companies based in Hong Kong, the United Arab Emirates and Saint Kitts and Nevis. The designations were made primarily under Executive Order 13902 concerning sanctions relating to Iran and, in some cases, also under Executive Orders 13224 and 13876 concerning counter-terrorism and the activities of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
The designated parties include exchange operators such as Mohammad Darbani and Partners Exchange General Partnership Company, Mohsen Khandan and Partners General Partnership Company and Lavasani and Partners General Partnership Company, together with natural persons associated with those entities. They also include Ali Ansari, an Iranian national holding multiple passports from Iran, Cyprus and Saint Kitts and Nevis, who is linked to Mojtaba Khamenei and the IRGC, as well as Smart Global Limited, an entity associated with Ansari.
As a result of the action, all property and interests in property of the designated persons and entities which are in the United States or in the possession or control of US persons are blocked. The designated persons are also subject to secondary sanctions, meaning that non-US persons engaging in significant transactions with them may likewise face sanctions exposure.
On 14 July 2026, the US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced sanctions against ten natural persons, twenty-three entities and twenty vessels associated with shipping and logistics networks used to facilitate trade in Iranian oil and products.
According to the available information, the measure designates an extensive network of persons and companies operating in the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, Hong Kong, India, the Marshall Islands, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and Iran, principally linked to Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani. The designations were made under Executive Order 13902 concerning sanctions relating to Iran.
The designated parties include numerous shipping companies based in the United Arab Emirates and the Marshall Islands, as well as 20 general cargo vessels, container ships and chemical or oil tankers flying the flags of Iran, Panama, Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Palau, and Saint Kitts and Nevis. The measure also updates the entry for the Central Bank of Iran, Bank Markazi Jomhouri Islami Iran, by adding multiple additional TRX digital-currency addresses.
As a result of the action, all property and interests in property of the designated persons, entities and vessels which are in the United States or in the possession or control of US persons are blocked. The designated persons are subject to secondary sanctions, meaning that non-US persons engaging in significant transactions with them may likewise face sanctions exposure.
On 15 July 2026, the US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced sanctions against four natural persons and three entities linked to activities involving the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and support for Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
The measure designates persons and entities linked to procurement networks facilitating the acquisition of components and technology for Iranian missile and drone programmes. The designations were made under Executive Order 13382 concerning the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery, identified as NPWMD on the list, and also under Executive Order 13608, IFSR, concerning sanctions against persons who violate international rules.
The designated parties include Behrouz Namazi, who is linked to the IRGC, and entities including Avratek OOO of Russia, Nika Jet Company of Iran and Vanguard Tactical Supply Limited of Nigeria, all associated with Namazi. The measure also updates the entries for the Juárez Cartel and Los Viagras, classifying them as transnational terrorist organisations under Executive Order 13224, as amended.
As a result of the action, all property and interests in property of the designated persons and entities which are in the United States or in the possession or control of US persons are blocked. The designated persons and entities are subject to secondary sanctions, meaning that non-US persons engaging in significant transactions with them may likewise face sanctions exposure.
Furthermore, on 23 July 2026, the publication entitled ‘Counter Terrorism Designations; Counter Narcotics Designations; Cuba Designations; Belarus-related Designation Removal; Issuance of Cuba-related General Licences’ listed persons and entities connected with Hamas, affecting Palestine, Gaza, Türkiye, Indonesia, Iraq, the United Kingdom and other territories through financing and support networks for the group. Taken together, the measures primarily affect Cuba, Mexico and Hamas-linked networks in the Middle East and third countries through asset freezes, prohibitions on transactions with US persons and financial restrictions under US sanctions programmes concerning Cuba, Specially Designated Global Terrorism and International Narcotics Trafficking.
On 24 July 2026, OFAC announced the following measures: ‘Iran-related Designations; Issuance of Amended Russia-related General License and Frequently Asked Questions; Issuance of Amended Venezuela-related Frequently Asked Question; Publication of Regulatory Amendments’. Four persons and nine entities connected with Executive Order 13902, which targets key sectors of Iran’s economy and mechanisms used to facilitate sanctions evasion, were added to the Specially Designated Nationals List, or SDN List. The sanctions primarily affect Iran but also extend to entities located in the United Arab Emirates, Dubai, and Türkiye, which are regarded as part of financial or commercial support networks connected with Iranian interests.
Democratic Republic of the Congo
On 10 July 2026, the US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) issued Democratic Republic of the Congo-related General Licence 2, entitled ‘Authorizing Transactions Related to Agricultural Commodities, Medicine, Medical Devices, Replacement Parts and Components, Software Updates, or Clinical Trials’.
The licence authorises transactions ordinarily incident and necessary to the export or re-export of agricultural commodities, medicines, medical devices, replacement parts and components for medical devices, and software updates for medical devices to the Democratic Republic of the Congo or Rwanda, or to third countries purchasing specifically for onward supply to those countries. It also authorises transactions necessary for the prevention, diagnosis or treatment of disease and for the conduct of clinical trials and other medical research in the DRC or Rwanda.
The licence also defines agricultural commodities, medicines and medical devices and contains an important qualification: it does not exempt parties from compliance with other federal laws or requirements imposed by other US agencies. Nor does it authorise transactions which remain prohibited under other OFAC rules unless separately authorised.
In practical terms, this is a humanitarian and public-health exception within the DRC sanctions regime, intended to permit the flow of essential goods and services without requiring a specific licence for each covered transaction.
Cuba
On 14 July 2026, the US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) updated the SDN List by adding two natural persons associated with cyber activity and several Cuban entities, and also issued a new Cuba-related Frequently Asked Question.
According to the available information, the new cyber-related designations include Dmytro Rashevskyi and Yevgeniy Vladimirovich Silayev. Rashevskyi is listed under multiple aliases and cryptocurrency addresses, while Silayev is recorded as resident in Grodno, Belarus; both are designated under the CYBER4 category.
Several Cuba-linked entities were also added, including the Association of Combatants of the Cuban Revolution (ACRC), Coreydan S.A., Corporacion Antillana Exportadora S.A., Enetec S.A., Grupo Empresarial de Transporte Marítimo Portuario (GEMAR), Grupo Empresarial del Comercio Exterior (GECOMEX), Milicias de Tropas Territoriales, the Ministry of Tourism of Cuba, Organizacion Superior de Direccion Empresarial Caudal S.A. and the Rapid Response Brigades. First VPN Service was also added as an entity associated with the cyber-related block.
In practical terms, the measure expands restrictions targeting cyber networks and reinforces sanctions against Cuban institutions and companies regarded as forming part of the state apparatus or supporting the regime. The Cuba-related FAQ issued by OFAC clarifies the application of the existing regime but does not itself introduce a new designation.
On 17 July 2026, OFAC updated its Hong Kong measures through new designations and certain removals from lists associated with different sanctions regimes.
On the one hand, numerous persons and entities linked to Hong Kong’s political and security structures were added under the Hong Kong Autonomy Act regime. The designated persons include, among others, Cai Dafeng, Cao Jianming, Eric Chan, Teresa Cheng, Frederic Choi, Carrie Lam, John Ka-chiu Lee, Chris Tang, Erick Tsang and Xia Baolong.
On the other hand, certain persons were removed from the list associated with the Hong Kong executive order. Those removed include Stephen Lo, Paul Ting Kwok Lam, Sonny Chi Kwong Au, Dick Chung Chun Wong and Raymond Chak Yee Siu.
In practical terms, the designations entail the blocking of property and a general prohibition on transactions on the terms laid down by the applicable regime, while the removals mean that those persons cease to be subject to those particular restrictions under that sanctions authority.
On 23 July 2026, ‘Counter Terrorism Designations; Counter Narcotics Designations; Cuba Designations; Belarus-related Designation Removal; Issuance of Cuba-related General Licences’ announced a series of measures, including General Licences 2, 3 and 4 authorising the orderly wind-down of certain transactions involving CEIBA Investments Limited. Several Cuban state entities in sectors including energy, maritime transport, medical services, oil and finance, as well as persons connected with the Cuban Government, were also added to the SDN List. The sanctions also affect Mexico, where numerous persons and companies linked to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, CJNG, were designated for activities relating to drug trafficking and financial support, including companies in the agricultural, transport, security, trading and energy sectors.
United Kingdom
Russia
On 6 July 2026, the UK Government updated the sanctions list under the chemical-weapons regime by adding nine new designations.
According to the available information, the measure adds two principal entities, the State Research Institute of Military Medicine, also identified as GNIII VM, and SC Signal, together with seven persons connected with those scientific centres. The individuals listed are Artur Aleksandrovich Zhirov, Vladimir Borisovich Kondratyev, Sergei Viktorovich Chepur, Andrei Mikhailovich Antokhin, Viktor Fedorovic Taranchenko, Ivan Sergeyevich Kravtsov and Aleksandr Aleksandrovich Makhlay.
The measure was adopted under the UK’s chemical-weapons sanctions regime and responds to the alleged involvement of those persons and entities in prohibited activities relating to the development, support and promotion of chemical weapons. The sanctions imposed include an asset freeze, a travel ban and, in the case of the entities, a director-disqualification sanction.
In practical terms, the effect is to freeze the designated parties’ assets and restrict their ability to transact with persons or entities subject to UK jurisdiction. The update increases pressure on the scientific network linked to the Russian chemical programme identified by the United Kingdom in its notice.
In every case, the United Kingdom considers that there are reasonable grounds to suspect the involvement of those persons and entities in prohibited chemical-weapons-related activities, or their association with persons carrying out such activities.
On 13 July 2026, the United Kingdom updated the sanctions list under the Cyber regime by adding 14 new entries covering natural persons and entities.
According to the available information, the designated parties include Yuliya Vladimirovna Pankratova, Denis Olegovich Degtyarenko, Maksim Evgenievich Voronin, Maksim Aleksandrovich Gordienko, Marat Shaigovich Zhurkin, Roman Aleksandrovich Puntus, Vyacheslav Stanislavovich Stafeyev, Evgeniy Viktorovich Bashev, Ivan Sergeyevich Kasyanenko, Aleksandr Vladimirovich Shepelev, Dmitriy Aleksandrovich Voronov, Sultan Omarovich Omarov and Ivan Alekseyevich Senin, together with the entity OOO Impuls.
The reason stated by the United Kingdom is that those persons and the entity are alleged to have participated in relevant cyber activity undermining the integrity, prosperity or security of the United Kingdom or other countries, including by providing technical support for, planning, preparing or promoting such activity. In several cases, they are also linked to Lumma Stealer or GRU Unit 29155.
In practical terms, the measure imposes an asset freeze, travel ban and director-disqualification sanction on the designated persons, while the entity is subject to an asset freeze and a director-disqualification sanction.
On 14 July 2026, the United Kingdom updated one entry on the Russia sanctions list: Christodoulos Georgiou VASSILIADES.
According to the available information, the amendment maintains the asset freeze, travel ban, trust-services sanctions and director-disqualification sanction applicable to VASSILIADES. The United Kingdom states that he is linked to Alisher Usmanov through the professional services he provides to him and that he is also a director of Sberbank Investments Limited, a subsidiary of Sberbank, strengthening the connection with an entity associated with the Government of Russia.
In practical terms, the measure does not create a new designation but amends an existing one to keep the legal basis and associated information up to date, without removing the designated person from the list.
On 15 July 2026, the United Kingdom updated the entry for Anna Kosakova under the Global Anti-Corruption Sanctions Regime. Certain information associated with a measure which remains fully in force was amended.
The restrictions already imposed therefore continue to apply: an asset freeze, a ban on travel to the United Kingdom and a director-disqualification sanction. The rationale for the measure remains substantially unchanged because the competent authority continues to consider that there are reasonable grounds to suspect that Kosakova has been involved in serious corruption.
The designation is linked to the alleged receipt of benefits derived from funds exceeding USD 300 million which are said to have been misappropriated, granted or improperly allocated from the Central Bank of Lebanon during Riad Salameh’s tenure as governor. The July update therefore confirms that the person remains subject to sanctions and that the information in the entry has been reviewed.
On 23 July 2026, ‘Sanctions Notice, Russia: 23 July 2026’ was published. The updates add and clarify identifying information and the grounds for designation, while maintaining the sanctions previously imposed, including restrictions on internet services, for alleged support for propaganda activities relating to the war in Ukraine. The designated persons remain subject to an asset freeze and to the prohibition on third parties making funds or economic resources available to them.
Daesh and Al-Qaida
On 10 July 2026, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office updated its sanctions list under the ISIL (Daesh) and Al-Qaida regime.
The amendment maintains the asset freeze, arms embargo and travel ban, while correcting and expanding the identifying information. Hamidah Nabagala is listed as a person linked to ISIL financing channels in Central Africa and is also accused of financing a bombing in Kampala in 2021 and attempting to coerce her three children into travelling to ISIL camps in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
In practical terms, the measure does not create a new designation but updates an existing one to ensure correct identification and application under the sanctions regime.
Iran
On 13 July 2026, the United Kingdom added a new entity to the Iran sanctions list: the Islamic Movement of Companions of the Right (IMCR).
According to the stated facts, the entity is also listed under several alternative names, including Ashab al-Yamin, Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia, HAYI and IMCR. The UK Government considers that there are reasonable grounds to suspect that IMCR has participated in hostile activity attributable to the Government of Iran, in particular conduct undermining the security of the United Kingdom or other countries, as well as attacks against persons and assets, including the sabotage of property.
In practical terms, the measure imposes an asset freeze and formally adds the entity to the UK’s Iran sanctions regime.
Sudan
On 16 July 2026, the United Kingdom updated the Sudan sanctions list by adding 11 new entries covering natural persons and entities.
According to the available information, the designated parties include Abu Dharr Abdul Nabi Habiballa Ahmmed, Mazin Gamareldin Mohamed Fadlalla, Ahmad Abdalla and Ahmed Hamad El Basher Hashim, together with entities including Prodigious Real Estate Management Supervision Services, Aoun Commercial Brokers LLC, Ariab Mining Company Limited, Natwest Logistics LLC, Sudamin Company Limited, Portex Trade Limited and Omdurman Mining.
The United Kingdom states that those persons and entities are linked to financial, logistics and commercial networks associated with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and, in some cases, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), through the provision of financial services, funds, economic resources or supplies of goods and military technology. The UK authority maintains that such activity contributes to conduct threatening the peace, stability and security of Sudan, particularly in the context of the conflict and war-related gold trade.
In practical terms, the sanctions imposed include an asset freeze and, in most cases, a travel ban and director-disqualification sanction. The update therefore forms part of the UK’s efforts to disrupt the financing and supply networks fuelling the war in Sudan.
Democratic Republic of the Congo
On 17 July 2026, the United Kingdom updated its sanctions list for the Democratic Republic of the Congo with eight new entries, all of which are subject to the stated measures. Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC) was added with an asset freeze, as was Twirwaneho; both are described as forming part of the network linked to the Congo River Alliance and M23.
Charles Sematama, Nangaa Yobeluo Corneille, Kubwayo Gustave, John Imani Nzenze, Muhammed Lumisa and Sebastien Uwimbabazi were also designated. Some are subject to an asset freeze and travel ban, while Sematama is additionally sanctioned for his role as a military commander of Twirwaneho.
The reasons for designation concern activities undermining peace, stability and security in the DRC, including collaboration with M23, the exploitation of natural resources, the recruitment and use of children in armed conflict, abuses against civilians and breaches of the arms embargo.
Libya
On 17 July 2026, the UK Libya sanctions notice recorded a revocation: Baroque Investments Limited, unique ID LIB0015, was removed from the list and is no longer subject to an asset freeze or a director-disqualification sanction.
According to the notice, the entity had been listed under the Libya sanctions regime pursuant to the Libya (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2020, with an original designation date of 31 December 2020 and a most recent update on 17 July 2026. The entry also states that the company was based in the Isle of Man and that the director-disqualification sanction was imposed on 9 April 2025.
In practice, this means that from that date the entity ceases to be a designated person for asset-freezing purposes under the UK’s Libya sanctions regime. The notice also reiterates that persons holding or controlling funds or economic resources of a designated person must freeze them, refrain from dealing with them and report them to OFSI; however, those obligations cease to apply to Baroque Investments Limited following the revocation.
On 24 July 2026, ‘Libya: list of designations and sanctions notices’ was published. Under that notice, the United Kingdom expanded its Libya sanctions regime by adding the vessel AVAX, IMO 9058713, to the sanctions list on the basis that it had attempted unlawfully to export Libyan oil in breach of United Nations Security Council resolutions. As a result, the vessel is subject to maritime sanctions including a prohibition on entering UK ports, possible cancellation of any UK registration and other restrictive measures affecting its navigation.
In addition, any person or entity subject to UK jurisdiction which owns or controls funds or economic resources connected with the vessel must freeze them, refrain from making them available and report them to the Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI). Failure to comply with those obligations may constitute a criminal offence.
United Nations
On 8 July 2026, the United Nations Security Council Sanctions Committee updated the Consolidated List under the ISIL (Daesh) and Al-Qaida regime by amending an existing entry.
In case [SC/16407], the affected entry is that of Hamidah Nabaggala, QDi.439. The update corrects her identifying information, in particular changing her date of birth from 9 March 1996 to 23 February 1989, and retains her links to Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo as an associated address.
In practical terms, the person remains subject to the measures under the UN regime, namely an asset freeze, travel ban and arms embargo. The notice itself states that she acts as an intermediary in ISIL financing channels in Central Africa, was accused of financing an attack in Kampala in 2021 and attempted to coerce her three children into travelling to ISIL camps in the DRC. The update is recorded as an amendment rather than a new listing, and the entry remains on the list with corrected information to improve identification.
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In Madrid, 31 July 2026
International Trade and Sanctions Department
Lupicinio International Law Firm
