The U.S. State Department announced sanctions against five Russian citizens and four military entities. The move comes after a Senate decision to advance a sanctions bill targeting Russia's energy revenue.
Military and business targets
Sanctioned military units include the Russian Main Missile and Artillery Directorate, the 1061st Material-Technical Support Center, and the Directorate for Advanced Inter-Service Research and Special Projects. Two Russian companies, International Invest Company and Gedion Alpha Company, were also hit with sanctions.
Who is on the list
The sanctioned individuals include Alexander Prikhodko, Andrei Gusev, Andrei Kosolapov, Vladislav Morozik, and Sergei Tsibarev. These names appeared on the list for actions linked to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.
The U.S. government barred its agencies from doing business with the sanctioned entities. This includes purchasing goods, providing services, or selling weapons. The restrictions remain in place for two years, unless lifted earlier.
What's next for the sanctions bill
The sanctions announcement follows a Senate vote in early August to move forward with a bill targeting Russian energy exports. The bill includes measures to hit countries still importing Russian oil and gas, as well as new sanctions on Iran.
The legislation, revised just days after Senator Lindsey Graham's death, seeks to reduce Russia's access to global markets. It now requires approval from both the Senate and the House of Representatives before becoming law.