US imposes sanctions against Moscow, expels 10 Russian diplomats

The United States on Thursday announced fresh economic sanctions against Russia, and expelled 10 diplomats, in retaliation to alleged election interference, massive cyber security attack and other hostilities.

In a statement, the White House said that President Joe Biden’s executive order “sends a signal that the United States will impose costs in a strategic and economically impactful manner on Russia if it continues or escalates its destabilizing international action”.

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The statement listed Moscow’s efforts to sabotage the conduct of free and fair democratic elections and the institutions in he United States. The statement refers to the allegations that Russian intelligence agencies had a part to play in Donald Turmp’s candidacy.

The White House said the sanctions also prevents cyber activities against the United States and its allies. 

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The statement also called out Russia’s extraterritorial “targeting” of dissidents and journalists and undermining of security in countries important to US national security.

In addition, the Department of Treasury, together with the European Union, Australia, Britain and Canada, sanctioned eight individuals and entities associated with Russia’s occupation of Crimea in Ukraine.

In Brussels, the NATO military alliance said US allies “support and stand in solidarity with the United States, following its 15 April announcement of actions to respond to Russia’s destabilizing activities.”