Editor’s Note
This article reports on the latest sanctions against Russia announced by G7 leaders at the Hiroshima summit, alongside new U.S. trade restrictions and a pledge of sustained support for Ukraine.
Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) nations, meeting at a summit in Hiroshima, Japan, have agreed to impose new sanctions on Russia. These measures aim to prevent Russia from accessing technology, industrial equipment, and services from member states to support Moscow’s war efforts. The United States also announced the addition of 71 entities and individuals supporting Russia to its trade blacklist.
G7 leaders issued a joint statement pledging continued economic and military support for Ukraine in its fight against Russia. While expanding sanctions, the G7 is also engaging with other countries to prevent goods and technology from reaching Moscow through third parties. They are simultaneously strengthening efforts to prevent individuals and entities from circumventing existing sanctions. Member states are also announcing their own new bans against Russia.
The United Kingdom has targeted Russia’s diamond trade, worth approximately $5 billion annually, and plans to ban imports of Russian diamonds. The G7 also pledged to restrict the trade and use of diamonds mined, processed, or produced in Russia.
Hundreds of people took to the streets of Hiroshima in anti-war demonstrations, expressing concerns that the current international situation could escalate into conflict. Demonstrators also voiced their dissatisfaction with the G7.
The G7 leaders’ summit will continue until Sunday, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy scheduled to attend over the weekend.
