UK sanctions Russian agencies and individuals

The UK has imposed sanctions on three Russian agencies and three senior figures, who the government says are attempting to undermine and destabilise Ukraine and its democracy.

According to the UK government, the Social Design Agency (SDA) is tasked and funded directly by the Russian State. The Agency, along with its partner company Structura, has attempted to deliver a series of interference operations designed to undermine democracy and weaken international support for Ukraine.

The group also allegedly attempted to incite protests in half a dozen European countries.

Foreign secretary, David Lammy, said: "Putin is so desperate to undermine European support for Ukraine he is now resorting to clumsy, ineffective efforts to try and stoke unrest.   

"Today’s sanctions send a clear message: we will not tolerate your lies and interference, and we are coming after you.  

"Putin’s desperate attempts to divide us will fail. We will constrain the Kremlin, and stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes."