Prominent Australians, including former prime ministers Tony Abbott and John Howard, have been targeted by a new wave of Russian sanctions over their support for Ukraine.
An accompanying statement by the ministry accused the banned individuals of helping direct the Australian government’s “Russophobic policies” and planning an “anti-Russia agenda”.
Since Russia invaded Ukraine more than two years ago, Canberra and Moscow relations have hit a new low.
Former Australian Prime Ministers Tony Abbott and John Howard, along with several other prominent figures, have been hit with Russian sanctions due to their support for Ukraine. This move comes as Canberra’s relationship with Moscow worsens following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The Russian Foreign Ministry accused the individuals on the sanctions list of influencing Australia’s anti-Russia policies. Tony Abbott has been vocal in his support for Ukraine, emphasizing the country’s importance in the fight for freedom and calling for increased support from Western nations. This latest development further escalates tensions between Australia and Russia, with the potential for more individuals to be added to the sanctions list in the future.