UK Developing New Sanctions Against Russia Amid Ukraine Tensions

The United Kingdom is formulating sanctions against Moscow in the event of an escalation in the situation surrounding Ukraine. London may consider a 'nuclear' option for its support, which would involve removing Russia from the SWIFT international payment system and implementing measures against the 'Nord Stream 2', reports RIA Novosti, referencing the British newspaper Telegraph.

According to the newspaper, officials have begun working on new sanctions aimed at weakening the Russian economy should the 'Kremlin proceed further'. The publication notes that the UK is contemplating a 'nuclear' support option that would see Russia ousted from the SWIFT international banking system. Additionally, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson believes that sanctions must include measures against the 'Nord Stream 2', the newspaper informs.

It is also mentioned that Johnson is planning to hold discussions with G7 leaders (excluding the UK, the discussions will involve the US, Germany, Italy, Canada, France, and Japan) to finalize the creation of a 'sanctions coalition' aimed at implementing targeted measures against oligarchs supporting the Russian president. Specific names have not been disclosed in the publication.

A well-informed source told the newspaper, 'The UK is working closely with NATO and the US to implement a dialogue and deterrence policy, following the diplomatic path, but is preparing a package of sanctions that would strike at the Russian economy in the absence of diplomatic successes.'