By: Michael Ruck, Rosie Naylor, Petr Bartoš, and Laura Scott
On 21 July 2025, the UK Office for Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) released a detailed threat assessment focused on the crypto-asset sector’s vulnerability to sanctions breaches (the Assessment). This Assessment sends a clear warning to UK crypto firms: sanctions compliance is not optional, and enforcement is tightening.
Read MoreBy: Michael Ruck, Rosie Naylor, Petr Bartoš, and Laura Scott
On 18 July 2025, the European Union adopted its 18th sanctions package targeting Russia in response to its continued aggression in Ukraine (the Package). This wide-ranging set of measures builds on previous rounds of sanctions and aims to increase pressure on Russia by targeting its energy revenue, banking sector, military capabilities, and circumvention tactics. The Package also includes symbolic steps to hold Russia accountable for crimes against Ukrainian children and cultural heritage.
Read MoreBy: Michael Ruck, Rosie Naylor, Petr Bartoš, and Laura Scott
On 22 July 2025, the UK Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) launched a significant consultation on proposed reforms to its civil enforcement framework (the Consultation). These reforms – currently open for consultation until 13 October 2025 – could reshape how sanctions breaches are investigated, penalised and resolved. This marks a decisive shift away from OFSI’s traditionally cautious approach, and signals that the UK is moving toward a more assertive, US-style sanctions enforcement model.
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