The UK has sanctioned 18 Russian military intelligence officers accused of preparing a deadly 2022 theater bombing in Ukraine that killed hundreds of civilians. The officers, part of the GRU unit, are also linked to targeting the family of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and carrying out cyberattacks across Europe.
According to the British foreign ministry, the GRU spies are running a campaign to destabilize Europe, undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty, and threaten British citizens’ safety. The sanctions target not only individuals but also organizations involved in information operations in Africa, including undermining public health programs.
The attack on the Mariupol theater occurred shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine in March 2022. Online reconnaissance was conducted on civilian bomb shelters in Ukraine, with the theater being one of the targets. The next day, Russian airstrikes killed around 600 people, mostly children.
This is part of a larger campaign of sabotage and disruption across Europe attributed to Russia, which includes cyberattacks, propaganda, arson, and attempted assassinations. Over 70 attacks have been linked to Russia since the invasion.
The UK’s goal with these sanctions is to raise awareness of Russia’s campaign and make it harder for individuals working for its services to travel.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/uk-sanctions-russian-intelligence-officers-targeted-mariupol-theater-123858639