The United States has taken a joint action against Russia due to its ongoing violations of international norms. On December 19, 2018, the Departments of State and the Treasury announced measures targeting individuals and entities linked to the Russian government.
The State Department has added 12 individuals and entities to the List of Specified Persons under Section 231 of the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA). These additions relate to persons operating for or on behalf of Russia's defense or intelligence sectors. The actions cited include interference in the 2016 U.S. election, cyber-attacks on international organizations, and an assassination attempt using chemical weapons. Some individuals are connected to Project Lakhta, which includes the Internet Research Agency involved in political interference globally. Those engaging in significant transactions with these listed persons will face CAATSA sanctions.
Furthermore, the Treasury Department designated members of Russia’s Main Intelligence Directorate (GRU) and others associated with Project Lakhta. This includes Victor Boyarkin for acting on behalf of Oleg Deripaska.
These sanctions represent a firm stance against acts by the Russian government deemed irresponsible. Russian intelligence services have been accused of undermining democratic elections and violating international conventions through actions like using nerve agents in assassination attempts.
A spokesperson stated, "We will not tolerate attempts to interfere in our democratic process, and we will side with our allies and partners against Russian subversion and destabilization." The U.S. plans to continue working with allies to respond collectively to malicious activities attributed to Russia.