The UK government rolled out a fresh set of sanctions on May 20 targeting Russian uranium imports, maritime logistics for energy shipments, and cryptocurrency networks used to dodge existing restrictions. Ukrainian officials indicated that an even broader package aimed at Russia’s financial sector could land later this week.

The measures, codified as the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) (Amendment) Regulations 2026 (SI 2026/543), go after Russian-origin uranium classified under commodity codes 2844 10, 2844 20, and 2844 30. That covers the import, acquisition, and supply of these materials to third countries, a direct shot at one of Russia’s less-discussed but meaningful revenue streams: nuclear fuel exports.

Crypto networks in the crosshairs

The new UK measures specifically reference the so-called “A7 network,” a Kremlin-affiliated financial infrastructure that reportedly uses cryptocurrency channels to facilitate sanctions circumvention. The regulations target both the network itself and associated service providers.

Back in August 2025, the UK sanctioned two cryptocurrency exchanges, Grinex and Meer, for actively participating in sanctions evasion processes tied to Russia. The latest round builds on that precedent but widens the scope considerably, going beyond individual exchanges to target entire financial networks.

Energy trade gets squeezed further

New rules restrict the maritime transportation of liquefied natural gas and refined oil products derived from Russian crude, targeting the “shadow fleet” of tankers that has helped Russia maintain export volumes despite years of Western sanctions.

The package mirrors several elements from the European Union’s 20th sanctions package, particularly on LNG and petroleum shipping.

Russia’s nuclear fuel exports represent a particularly thorny issue. Several countries, including some in the EU, have historically relied on Russian-enriched uranium for their nuclear power plants. Cutting off that supply chain doesn’t just hurt Moscow’s revenue. It forces importing nations to find alternative suppliers, a process that takes years given the specialized nature of nuclear fuel processing.

What this means for crypto investors

Major cryptocurrencies haven’t shown significant price movement tied to the announcement. These sanctions target specific networks and service providers, not the broader crypto market.

For crypto-asset service providers, the designation of the A7 network represents a more sophisticated approach to enforcement that targets systems rather than symptoms. Exchanges, custodians, and payment processors operating in or adjacent to affected jurisdictions will face heightened know-your-customer and transaction monitoring requirements.

The expected follow-up package targeting Russia’s financial sector, referenced by Ukrainian officials, could amplify these dynamics. If it includes additional restrictions on crypto-related financial flows, compliance teams at major exchanges will have even more screening obligations to manage.