US sanctions Cyprus-based entities linked to arms network

On Monday, the United States announced sanctions against ten individuals and twelve entities, with two of them operating within a global arms network and registered in Cyprus.

The move, as stated by the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) in a press release, aims to maintain financial pressure on the Lukashenka regime for its ongoing support of Russia's war against Ukraine and the resulting financial gains.

US Ambassador to Nicosia, Julie Fisher, emphasized the collaborative efforts between the US and Cyprus in opposing authoritarianism and Russia's unlawful actions in Ukraine. In a post on 'X,' Fisher highlighted the continuation of sanctions targeting individuals and entities involved in fraudulent activities and supporting Russia's invasion. Among those sanctioned are two Cyprus-based companies, part of the Black Shield network, utilizing intermediary firms like Centuronic Ltd and S. Group Airlines Ltd in Cyprus for their operations.

US & CY continue our shared efforts to oppose authoritarianism and Russia’s illegal war in #Ukraine. Building on previous sanctions for the fraudulent August 2020 election in Belarus & Lukashenka’s support of Russia’s illegal invasion, US designated today 10 individuals & 12…

— Julie Davis Fisher (@USAmbCy) April 15, 2024