The European Union has taken an unprecedented step by imposing sanctions on Russia for the first time directly in response to deadly shelling of Kyiv. A new package of restrictions came into force on July 17, aimed at undermining key links in the Russian military-industrial complex (MIC).
As Vladyslav Vlasyuk, the President of Ukraine's Commissioner for Sanctions Policy, stated in a comment to RBC-Ukraine, the new measures are a direct response to the massive attacks carried out on July 1 and 5. The sanctions target not only direct arms manufacturers but also the entire corporate infrastructure supporting their activities.
Manufacturers of navigation systems for 'Shaheds' hit
The central element of the new package was the imposition of restrictions on enterprises of the ABS Electro group. These companies play a critical role in ensuring the operation of Russian strike systems. In particular, the sanctions affected the manufacturer of the 'Komet' navigation module.
This module is a key component for 'Shahed' unmanned aerial vehicles (known in Ukraine as 'Geran') and is also used in 'Iskander-M' ballistic missiles. Vlasyuk emphasized that a comprehensive approach, including not only the manufacturing plant but also the entire supply chain, is the most effective tool of pressure.
JSC 'ABS ZEIM Automation' was also included in the list of sanctioned entities. According to the Ukrainian official, including this company in the 'black list' is particularly significant as it supplies equipment for a wide range of strategic sectors of the Russian economy, confirming the scale of support for the MIC.
Personal responsibility of executives
The sanctions are not only corporate but also personal in nature. Irina Kharisova, who heads the board of directors of 'ABS Electro' and manages companies involved in the production of navigation modules, fell under restrictions.
"Such a comprehensive approach strengthens the personal responsibility of the heads of enterprises that ensure the production of weapons used to strike Ukraine," noted Vladyslav Vlasyuk. This is a signal that European partners are ready to hit specific individuals making decisions in the military sphere.
Synchronization of efforts between Ukraine and the EU
An important aspect was the rapid implementation of European decisions at the national level. According to Vlasyuk, all natural and legal persons subject to EU sanctions were included in the Ukrainian sanctions package as early as March 14, 2026.
The official called this evidence of the effectiveness of Ukrainian experts and the deepening of coordination with European partners. The faster the synchronization of decisions between countries of the sanctions coalition, the fewer opportunities Russia has to maintain the production of critically important components.
Recall that the Greek government previously stated the need for a careful balance when introducing new sanctions, which is why the country did not support the 21st package of restrictions. However, the current measures, aimed at five enterprises and one individual, were implemented, becoming an important step in isolating the Russian MIC.
