Switzerland Aligns with EU Sanctions Against Russia

The Swiss Federal Council has adopted measures from the European Union's (EU) 20th sanctions package against Russia. This decision comes in line with previous practice, and the new measures will take effect on August 20, 2026.

Switzerland expanded its sanctions lists on May 22 to include an additional 115 individuals and entities, bringing the total number of those subject to asset freezes in Switzerland to around 2,790. The EU adopted new measures against Russia as part of its 20th package of sanctions on April 23.

The Federal Council has issued service bans relating to liquefied natural gas tankers and icebreakers, as well as liquefied natural gas terminals in Russia. There is also a ban on selling tankers to Russia, with contracts for the sale of tankers to third countries now requiring a clause prohibiting their transfer to Russia.

The Federal Council has activated the so-called Anti-Circumvention Tool for the first time, which aims to prevent sanctions circumvention via third countries. The export of certain sensitive goods to the Kyrgyz Republic is now prohibited, and the existing export ban on goods that strengthen Russia's military and technological capabilities as well as goods that strengthen Russia's industry has been extended.

In addition, further restrictions will be introduced on the import of economically significant goods that generate substantial revenue for Russia. The Federal Council has also banned the use of Russian platforms for the transfer and exchange of crypto-assets to prevent Russia from using alternative means of payment to circumvent sanctions.