Mr. Sanctions

Category: Designations

  • UN 1518 Sanctions Committee removes 1 person from Iraq sanctions

    Note: I do not have a prompt yet to reformat UN designations. Given the inconsistency of the format (note how the “a.k.a.” after “Low quality” isn’t bolded like the one after “Good quality”), I may not.

    SC/16240

    9 December 2025

    Security Council 1518 Sanctions Committee Removes One Entry from Its Sanctions List

    On 9 December 2025, the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1518 (2003) removed the following entry from its Sanctions List of individuals and entities.

    A. Individuals

    IQi.074 Name: 1: MUNIR 2: AL QUBAYSI 3: na 4: na
    Name (original script): منير القبيسي
    Title: na Designation: na DOB: 1966 POB: Heet, Iraq Good quality a.k.a.: a) Munir Al-Kubaysi b)Muneer Al-Kubaisi c) Munir Awad d) Munir A Mamduh. Awad Low quality a.k.a.: na Nationality: Iraq Passport no: na National identification no: na Address: Syrian Arab Republic Listed on: 26 Apr. 2004 Other information:  No link available

    Press releases concerning changes to the Committee’s Sanctions List may be found in the “Press Releases” section on the Committee’s website at the following URL:  https://main.un.org/securitycouncil/en/sanctions/1518/press-releases.

    The updated version of the Committee’s Sanctions List, available in HTML, PDF and XML format, may be found at the following URL:  https://main.un.org/securitycouncil/en/sanctions/1518/materials.

    The United Nations Security Council Consolidated List is also updated following all changes made to the Committee’s Sanctions List and is accessible at the following URL:  https://main.un.org/securitycouncil/en/content/un-sc-consolidated-list.

    —

    ,

  • December 9, 2025: OFAC Sudan-related Designations; Russia-related Designations Removals

    Treasury Press Release: Treasury Sanctions Transnational Network Recruiting Colombians to Fight in Sudan’s Civil War

    From today’s OFAC release:

    The additions to the Sudan program:

    The following individuals have been added to OFAC’s SDN List:

    [SUDAN-EO14098] – Executive Order 14098 (Imposing Sanctions on Certain Persons Destabilizing Sudan and Undermining the Goal of a Democratic Transition)

    • DUQUE BOTERO, Mateo Andres
      • Address: Calle 77 9 76 APT 302, Bogota, Colombia
      • DOB: 07 Apr 1975
      • POB: Bogota, Colombia
      • Nationality: Colombia
      • Alt. Nationality: Spain
      • Gender: Male
      • Cedula No.: 79782423 (Colombia)
      • Passport: AS272175 (Colombia) expires 31 Mar 2026
      • Alt. Passport: XDD789846 (Spain)
      • Alt. Passport: BF868819 (Colombia) expires 01 Mar 2035
      • Type: Individual
      • Linked To: MAINE GLOBAL CORP S.A.S.
      Supplemental Information:According to the Treasury Department, Mateo Andres Duque Botero (“Duque”) manages Maine Global Corp S.A.S., a Bogotá-based employment agency. He is a dual Colombian-Spanish national who holds positions as shareholder, president, or director in firms across Colombia, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Public records from the UK Companies House indicate a “Mateo Andres Duque Botero” was appointed director of Zeuz Global Ltd in July 2025. Duque allegedly utilized his U.S.-based firms to process payroll payments for Colombian fighters in Sudan and served as a foreign exchange intermediary to convert curre1ncies for the network.
    • MUNOZ UCROS, Monica (a.k.a. MUÑOZ UCROS, Monica)
      • Address: Calle 77 9 76 APT 302, Bogota, Colombia
      • DOB: 14 Jun 1976
      • POB: Bogota, Colombia
      • Nationality: Colombia
      • Gender: Female
      • Cedula No.: 52413003 (Colombia)
      • Passport: AX032470 (Colombia) expires 11 Mar 2031
      • Type: Individual
      • Linked To: MAINE GLOBAL CORP S.A.S.
      Supplemental Information:Monica Munoz Ucros serves as the alternate manager of Maine Global Corp S.A.S. and manages Comercializadora San Bendito S.A.S. The Treasury states she facilitated wire transfers between Duque Botero and U.S. companies to support the recruitment network.
    • OLIVEROS FORERO, Claudia Viviana
      • Address: Bogota, Colombia
      • DOB: 02 Jan 1973
      • POB: Bogota, Colombia
      • Nationality: Colombia
      • Gender: Female
      • Cedula No.: 52252815 (Colombia)
      • Passport: AZ321704 (Colombia) expires 20 Jul 2032
      • Type: Individual
      • Linked To: INTERNATIONAL SERVICES AGENCY S.A.S.
      Supplemental Information:Claudia Viviana Oliveros Forero (“Oliveros”) is the owner and manager of International Services Agency S.A.S. (A4SI), the central recruiting node for the network. She is the wife of Alvaro Andres Quijano Becerra. She previously served as president and treasurer of the Panama-based Talent Bridge, S.A. (formerly Global Staffing S.A.), maintaining affiliation to obfuscate the network’s activities.
    • QUIJANO BECERRA, Alvaro Andres
      • Address: Bogota, Colombia
      • Address: United Arab Emirates
      • DOB: 18 Jul 1967
      • POB: Bogota, Colombia
      • Nationality: Colombia
      • Alt. Nationality: Italy
      • Gender: Male
      • Cedula No.: 80413253 (Colombia)
      • Passport: AP628498 (Colombia)
      • Alt. Passport: YB7731256 (Italy) expires 01 Mar 2031
      • Type: Individual
      Supplemental Information:Alvaro Andres Quijano Becerra (“Quijano”) is a retired Colombian military officer and dual Colombian-Italian national based in the UAE. Treasury identifies him as the central figure recruiting former Colombian military personnel for the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan. He co-founded A4SI. Public reports, including from The Sentry, allege Quijano is a former associate of the Norte del Valle Cartel. He reportedly utilizes his UAE connections to facilitate the deployment of mercenaries.

    The following entities have been added to OFAC’s SDN List:2

    [SUDAN-EO14098] – Executive Order 14098 (Imposing Sanctions on Certain Persons Destabilizing Sudan and Undermining the Goal of a Democratic Transition)3

    • COMERCIALIZADORA SAN BENDITO S.A.S.4
      • Address: Bogota, Colombia5
      • NIT #: 9011008200 (Colo6mbia)
      • Matricula Mercantil No: 02846256 (Colombia)
      • Linked To: MUNOZ UCROS, Monica
      Supplemental Information:Managed by Monica Munoz Ucros, this Bogotá-based entity allegedly engaged in wire transfers with U.S. companies associated with the network to move funds related to the recruitment of fighters.
    • INTERNATIONAL SERVICES AGENCY S.A.S. (a.k.a. “A4SI”; a.k.a. “ACADEMY FOR SECURITY INSTRUCTION S.A.S.”)
      • Address: Avenida Carrera 19 No. 97-31 Of. 603, Bogota, Colombia
      • Website: https://a4si.com.co
      • NIT #: 9010625922 (Colombia)
      • Matricula Mercantil No: 02792522 (Colombia)
      Supplemental Information:A4SI is an employment agency co-founded by Quijano and owned/managed by Oliveros. It is identified as the primary node for recruiting Colombian mercenaries for the war in Sudan, using its website and social media to fill positions for snipers and drone operators. The company describes itself on its website as a “transnational private employment management and placement agency.”
    • MAINE GLOBAL CORP S.A.S.
      • Address: Bogota, Colombia
      • Website: https://maineglobal.net
      • NIT #: 9018645322 (Colombia)
      • Matricula Mercantil No: 03863364 (Colombia)
      • Linked To: TALENT BRIDGE, S.A.
      Supplemental Information:Managed by Mateo Andres Duque Botero, this entity manages and disburses funds for the recruitment network. It reportedly processes payroll for fighters and acts as a foreign exchange intermediary.
    • TALENT BRIDGE, S.A. (a.k.a. GLOBAL STAFFING S.A.)
      • Address: Calle 54 Barrio PH Twist Tower, 28th Floor, Office F, Panama City, Panama
      • Website: https://globalstaffingsa.com/
      • RUC #: 155722003-2-2022 (Panama)
      • Linked To: INTERNATIONAL SERVICES AGENCY S.A.S.
      Supplemental Information:Formerly known as Global Staffing S.A., this Panama-based entity is used by A4SI to sign contracts and receive funds, thereby minimizing legal exposure and obscuring links to the RSF. Its website is reportedly identical to that of A4SI.

    And the removals from Russian sanctions:

    The following deletions have been made to OFAC’s SDN List:

    [RUSSIA-EO14024]

    • [RUSSIA-EO14024] Russia Harmful Foreign Activities Sanctions: Russia Harmful Foreign Activities Sanctions Regulations, 31 C.F.R. part 587; Executive Order 14024, “Blocking Property With Respect To Specified Harmful Foreign Activities of the Government of the Russian Federation.”

    ASTRAKHAN, Kirill Aleksandrovich (a.k.a. ASTRAKHAN, Kirill (Cyrillic: АСТРАХАНЬ, Кирилл)), Moscow, Russia; DOB 17 Nov 1987; POB Donetsk, Ukraine; nationality Russia; Gender Male; Secondary sanctions risk: See Section 11 of Executive Order 14024.; Passport 721242410 (Russia) (individual)

    ASTRAKHAN, Kirill (Cyrillic: АСТРАХАНЬ, Кирилл) (a.k.a. ASTRAKHAN, Kirill Aleksandrovich), Moscow, Russia; DOB 17 Nov 1987; POB Donetsk, Ukraine; nationality Russia; Gender Male; Secondary sanctions risk: See Section 11 of Executive Order 14024.; Passport 721242410 (Russia) (individual)

    SOBOLEV, Nikita Aleksandrovich, Malta; DOB 07 Jun 1986; nationality Russia; Gender Male; Secondary sanctions risk: See Section 11 of Executive Order 14024.; Passport 550193782 (Russia); National ID No. 238667A (Malta) (individual) (Linked To: MALBERG LIMITED)

    —

    , ,

  • December 9, 2025: OFSI’s Russia designations

    Based on the OFSI “Notice_Russia_091225” issued on December 9, 2025, here are the re-formatted listings for the individual additions, followed by supplemental information.

    Individuals

    1. MIKHAIL SERGEEVICH ZVINCHUK

    • Group ID: 17242
    • DOB: 19/07/1991123
    • POB: Vladivostok, Russia456
    • Nationality: Russia789
    • National Identification Number: INN: 253716334825101112
    • Address: Block B, 86 Nizhegorodskaya Street, Nizhegorodsky Municipal District, Moscow, Russia, 109052131415
    • Position: Director General of RYBAR LLC161718
    • Other Information: (UK19 Sanctions List Ref): RUS3156. Financial sanctions imposed in addition to an asset freeze: Trust service20s. Date trust services sanctions imposed: 2109/12/2025. (UK Statement of Reasons): Mikhail Sergeevich ZVINCHUK is an “involved person” under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 on the basis of the following ground: ZVINCHUK is or has been involved in destabilising Ukraine by working as a director or equivalent of an entity, RYBAR LLC, which is or has been inv22olved in des23tabilising Ukraine.
    • Listed on: 09/12/2025 UK Sanctions List
    • Date Designated: 09/12/2025
    • Last Updated: 09/12/2025

    Supplemental Information: Mikhail Zvinchuk is a former Russian military press officer and the creator of the prominent pro-Kremlin Telegram channel “Rybar” (which has over 1.3 million subscribers). Rybar is accused of operating as a “private intelligence company” and a propaganda outlet, receiving funding from Russian state defense conglomerate Rostec. Zvinchuk has admitted to receiving taskings from Yevgeny Prigozhin’s Internet Research Agency in the past. He is also a member of a Russian government working group on mobilization.

    2. ALEKSANDR GELJEVITJ DUGIN2425

    • Group ID: 172432627
    • DOB: 07/01/19622829
    • POB: Moscow, Russia3031
    • Nationality: Russia3233
    • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): RUS3157. Financial sanctions imposed in addition to an asset freeze: Trust services. Date trust services sanctions imposed: 3409/12/203525. (UK Statement of Reasons): Aleksandr Geljevitj DUGIN is an “involved person” under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 on the basis36 of the following ground: DUGIN is or has been involved in destabilising Ukraine by being responsible for, engaging i37n, providing support for, or pro38moting any policy or action which destabilises Ukraine or undermines or threatens the territorial integrity, sovereignty or independence of Ukraine.
    • Gender: Male
    • Listed on: 09/12/2025 UK Sanctions List
    • Date Designated: 09/12/2025
    • Last Updated: 09/12/2025

    Supplemental Information: Aleksandr Dugin is a prominent Russian ultranationalist philosopher and political theorist, often referred to as “Putin’s Brain” (though his actual influence on the Kremlin is debated). He advocates for “Eurasianism” and has long called for the absorption of Ukraine into Russia. His daughter, Darya Dugina, was killed in a car bombing in 2022. He heads the “Center for Geopolitical Expertise,” which was also sanctioned in this update. He has previously been sanctioned by the US (in 2015) and the EU (in 2014/2022).

    Based on the OFSI “Notice_Russia_091225” issued on December 9, 2025, here are the re-formatted listings for the entityadditions, followed by supplemental information.

    Entities

    1. FOUNDATION FOR THE SUPPORT AND PROTECTION OF THE RIGHTS OF COMPATRIOTS LIVING ABROAD

    • Group ID: 17239
    • a.k.a: PRAVFOND
    • Address: Russia
    • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): RUS3153. Financial sanctions imposed in addition to an asset freeze: Trust services. Date trust services sanctions imposed: 09/12/2025. (UK Statement of Reasons): The Secretary of State considers there are reasonable grounds to suspect that the FOUNDATION FOR THE SUPPORT AND PROTECTION OF THE RIGHTS OF COMPATRIOTS LIVING ABROAD (hereafter PRAVFOND) is an “involved person” under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 on the basis that it is or has been involved in destabilising Ukraine or undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty or independence of Ukraine.
    • Listed on: 09/12/2025 UK Sanctions List
    • Date Designated: 09/12/2025
    • Last Updated: 09/12/2025

    Supplemental Information: Officially presented as a “legal aid” organization for Russians abroad, Pravfond has been exposed by investigations (including by The Insider and Der Spiegel) as a front for Russian intelligence agencies (FSB and GRU). It is accused of funding defense lawyers for convicted Russian spies (such as Vadim Krasikov) and financing propaganda operations in Europe.

    2. GOLOS

    • Group ID: 17240
    • Address: Avenue Ariane 5, Brussels, Belgium, 1200
    • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): RUS3154. Financial sanctions imposed in addition to an asset freeze: Trust services. Date trust services sanctions imposed: 09/12/2025. (UK Statement of Reasons): The Secretary of State considers there are reasonable grounds to suspect that GOLOS is an “involved person” under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 on the basis that it is or has been involved in destabilising Ukraine by being responsible for, engaging in, providing support for, or promoting the commission, planning or preparation of relevant cyber activity or propaganda.
    • Listed on: 09/12/2025 UK Sanctions List
    • Date Designated: 09/12/2025
    • Last Updated: 09/12/2025

    Supplemental Information: Golos is a Brussels-based media entity linked to Pravfond. It is part of a network accused of disseminating Kremlin narratives and disinformation within the European Union, hiding its connections to the Russian state.

    3. EUROMORE

    • Group ID: 17241
    • Address: Avenue Ariane 5, Brussels, Belgium, 1200
    • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): RUS3155. Financial sanctions imposed in addition to an asset freeze: Trust services. Date trust services sanctions imposed: 09/12/2025. (Phone number): +32 (2) 781-03-01 (Website): Euromore.eu (Email address): News@euromore.eu
    • Listed on: 09/12/2025 UK Sanctions List
    • Date Designated: 09/12/2025
    • Last Updated: 09/12/2025

    Supplemental Information: Euromore is a “news” portal based in Brussels that shares an address with Golos. It receives funding from Pravfond and is accused of acting as a front for Russian intelligence to spread anti-Ukraine propaganda and disinformation to European audiences under the guise of independent journalism.

    4. RYBAR LLC

    • Group ID: 17244
    • Name (non-Latin script): ООО “РЫБАРЬ”
    • Address: Block B, 86 Nizhegorodskaya Street, Nizhegorodsky Municipal District, Moscow, Russia, 109052
    • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): RUS3158. Financial sanctions imposed in addition to an asset freeze: Trust services. Date trust services sanctions imposed: 09/12/2025. (UK Statement of Reasons): RYBAR LLC is an “involved person” under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 on the basis that it is or has been involved in destabilising Ukraine by engaging in, providing support for, or promoting actions which destabilise Ukraine or undermine or threaten the territorial integrity, sovereignty or independence of Ukraine.
    • Listed on: 09/12/2025 UK Sanctions List
    • Date Designated: 09/12/2025
    • Last Updated: 09/12/2025

    Supplemental Information: Rybar LLC is the corporate entity behind the influential pro-war Telegram channel “Rybar.” It functions as a “private intelligence company,” publishing open-source intelligence (OSINT) and targeting coordinates that have been used by Russian military forces. It is also accused of running “Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference” (FIMI) campaigns, including attempts to interfere in Western elections (such as the “Taganrog” project).

    5. CENTER FOR GEOPOLITICAL EXPERTISE

    • Group ID: 17245
    • a.k.a: CGE
    • Address: Dinamovskaya Ulitsa, 1A, Moscow, Russia, 109044
    • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): RUS3159. Financial sanctions imposed in addition to an asset freeze: Trust services. Date trust services sanctions imposed: 09/12/2025. (Business Reg No): INN: 7703259850. (UK Statement of Reasons): CENTER FOR GEOPOLITICAL EXPERTISE (CGE) is an “involved person” under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 on the basis that it is or has been involved in destabilising Ukraine by being responsible for, engaging in, providing support for, or promoting any policy or action which destabilises Ukraine.
    • Listed on: 09/12/2025 UK Sanctions List
    • Date Designated: 09/12/2025
    • Last Updated: 09/12/2025

    Supplemental Information: The Center for Geopolitical Expertise is a think tank founded and led by Aleksandr Dugin. It is a key node in the Russian “Storm-1516” disinformation network, which produces fake news sites and content designed to undermine Western support for Ukraine. It is closely linked to Russian intelligence services.

    —

    ,

  • December 9, 2025: OFSI Cyber designations

    From the OFSI Notice:

    Based on the OFSI “Notice_Cyber_041225” and the Annex details, here are the re-formatted listings for the additions, followed by supplemental information.

    Individuals

    1. BORIS ALEKSEYEVICH ANTONOV

    • Group ID: 17227
    • Name (non-Latin script): Борис Алексеевич АНТОНОВ
    • Nationality: Russia
    • Address: Russia
    • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): CYB0104. (UK Statement of Reasons): The Secretary of State considers that there are reasonable grounds to suspect that as part of Unit 26165, Boris ANTONOV has been involved in relevant cyber activity in that he was responsible for, engaging in, providing support for, or promoting the commission, planning or preparation of relevant cyber activity. Such activity that Boris ANTONOV has been involved in undermines, or is intended to undermine, the integrity, prosperity or security of the United Kingdom or a country other than the United Kingdom.
    • Gender: Male
    • Listed on: 04/12/2025 UK Sanctions List
    • Date Designated: 04/12/2025
    • Last Updated: 04/12/2025

    Supplemental Information: Boris Antonov is a Major in the Russian GRU’s Unit 26165 (85th Main Special Service Center). He was indicted by a U.S. federal grand jury in July 2018 (the “Netyksho” indictment) for his role in the conspiracy to interfere with the 2016 U.S. presidential election, specifically involving the hacking of the DNC and DCCC. The FBI lists his Date of Birth as December 19, 1980.

    2. ANATOLIY VLADIMIROVICH ISTOMIN

    • Group ID: 17228
    • Name (non-Latin script): Анатолий Владимирович ИСТОМИН
    • Nationality: Russia
    • Address: Russia
    • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): CYB0105. (UK Statement of Reasons): The Secretary of State considers that there are reasonable grounds to suspect that as part of Unit 26165, Anatoliy ISTOMIN has been involved in relevant cyber activity in that he was responsible for, engaging in, providing support for, or promoting the commission, planning or preparation of relevant cyber activity. Such activity that Anatoliy Vladimirovich ISTOMIN has been involved in undermines, or is intended to undermine, the integrity, prosperity or security of the United Kingdom or a country other than the United Kingdom.
    • Gender: Male
    • Listed on: 04/12/2025 UK Sanctions List
    • Date Designated: 04/12/2025
    • Last Updated: 04/12/2025

    Supplemental Information: Anatoliy Istomin is identified as an officer in GRU Unit 26165, the unit responsible for military cyber operations including the 2016 U.S. election interference and attacks on the OPCW.

    3. IGOR ANDREYEVICH BOCHKA

    • Group ID: 17229
    • Name (non-Latin script): Игорь Андреевич БОЧКА
    • a.k.a: BOCHKA, Igor, Andreevich
    • Nationality: Russia
    • Address: Russia
    • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): CYB0106. (UK Statement of Reasons): The Secretary of State considers that there are reasonable grounds to suspect that a member of GRU Unit 26165, Igor Andreyevich BOCHKA has also been involved in relevant cyber activity in that he has been responsible for, engaging in, providing support for, or promoting the commission, planning or preparation of relevant cyber activity. Such activity that Igor Andreyevich BOCHKA has been involved in undermines, or is intended to undermine, the integrity, prosperity or security of the United Kingdom or a country other than the United Kingdom.
    • Gender: Male
    • Listed on: 04/12/2025 UK Sanctions List
    • Date Designated: 04/12/2025
    • Last Updated: 04/12/2025

    Supplemental Information: Igor Bochka is identified as an officer in GRU Unit 26165.

    4. ALEKSEY ANDREYEVICH UMETS

    • Group ID: 17230
    • Name (non-Latin script): Алексей Андреевич УМЕЦ
    • Nationality: Russia
    • Address: Russia
    • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): CYB0107. (UK Statement of Reasons): The Secretary of State considers that there are reasonable grounds to suspect that as part of Unit 26165, Aleksey Andreyevich UMETS has been involved in relevant cyber activity in that he has been responsible for, engaging in, providing support for, or promoting the commission, planning or preparation of relevant cyber activity. Such activity that Aleksey Andreyevich UMETS has been involved in undermines, or is intended to undermine, the integrity, prosperity or security of the United Kingdom or a country other than the United Kingdom.
    • Gender: Male
    • Listed on: 04/12/2025 UK Sanctions List
    • Date Designated: 04/12/2025
    • Last Updated: 04/12/2025

    Supplemental Information: Aleksey Umets is identified as an officer in GRU Unit 26165.

    5. PAVEL VYACHESLAVOVICH YERSHOV

    • Group ID: 17231
    • Name (non-Latin script): Павел Вячеславович ЕРШОВ
    • Nationality: Russia
    • Address: Russia
    • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): CYB0108. (UK Statement of Reasons): The Secretary of State considers that there are reasonable grounds to suspect that as part of Unit 26165, Pavel Vyacheslavovich YERSHOV has been involved in relevant cyber activity in that he has been responsible for, engaging in, providing support for, or promoting the commission, planning or preparation of relevant cyber activity. Such activity that Pavel Vyacheslavovich YERSHOV has been involved in undermines, or is intended to undermine, the integrity, prosperity or security of the United Kingdom or a country other than the United Kingdom.
    • Gender: Male
    • Listed on: 04/12/2025 UK Sanctions List
    • Date Designated: 04/12/2025
    • Last Updated: 04/12/2025

    Supplemental Information: Pavel Yershov is a Russian military intelligence officer assigned to GRU Unit 26165. He was indicted by the U.S. in July 2018 for his role in the 2016 election interference. The FBI lists his Date of Birth as December 14, 1990.

    6. NIKOLAY YURYEVICH KOZACHEK

    • Group ID: 17232
    • Name (non-Latin script): Николай Юрьевич КОЗАЧЕК
    • Nationality: Russia
    • Address: Russia
    • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): CYB0109. (UK Statement of Reasons): The Secretary of State considers that there are reasonable grounds to suspect that as part of Unit 26165, Nikolay Yuryevich KOZACHEK has been involved in relevant cyber activity in that he has been responsible for, engaging in, providing support for, or promoting the commission, planning or preparation of relevant cyber activity. Such activity that Nikolay Yuryevich KOZACHEK has been involved in undermines, or is intended to undermine, the integrity, prosperity or security of the United Kingdom or a country other than the United Kingdom.
    • Gender: Male
    • Listed on: 04/12/2025 UK Sanctions List
    • Date Designated: 04/12/2025
    • Last Updated: 04/12/2025

    Supplemental Information: Nikolay Kozachek is a Lieutenant Captain in the Russian GRU’s Unit 26165. He was indicted by the U.S. in July 2018 for developing and monitoring the “X-Agent” malware used to hack the DNC. The FBI lists his Date of Birth as July 29, 1989.

    7. DENIS IGOREVICH DENISENKO

    • Group ID: 17233
    • Name (non-Latin script): Денис Игоревич ДЕНИСЕНКО
    • Nationality: Russia
    • Address: Russia
    • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): CYB0110. (UK Statement of Reasons): The Secretary of State considers that there are reasonable grounds to suspect that Russian GRU 29155 Officer Senior Lieutenant Denis Igorevich DENISENKO is or has been responsible for, engaging in, providing support for, or promoting the commission, planning or preparation of relevant cyber activity. Additionally, DENISENKO remains associated with a GRU unit, which is a person who is or has been so involved in such activity.
    • Gender: Male
    • Listed on: 04/12/2025 UK Sanctions List
    • Date Designated: 04/12/2025
    • Last Updated: 04/12/2025

    Supplemental Information: Denis Denisenko is a Senior Lieutenant in GRU Unit 29155. He was indicted by the U.S. in June 2024 for his involvement in the “WhisperGate” malware attacks against Ukraine and other targets. The FBI lists his Date of Birth as May 14, 1997.

    8. DMITRIY YURYEVICH GOLOSHUBOV

    • Group ID: 17234
    • Name (non-Latin script): Дмитрий Юрьевич ГОЛОШУБОВ
    • Nationality: Russia
    • Address: Russia
    • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): CYB0111. (UK Statement of Reasons): The activity that GOLOSHUBOV is or has been involved in undermines, or is intended to undermine, the integrity, prosperity or security of the United Kingdom or a country other than the United Kingdom.
    • Gender: Male
    • Listed on: 04/12/2025 UK Sanctions List
    • Date Designated: 04/12/2025
    • Last Updated: 04/12/2025

    Supplemental Information: Dmitriy Goloshubov is an officer in GRU Unit 29155. He was indicted by the U.S. in June 2024 for his role in the “WhisperGate” cyber attacks against Ukrainian critical infrastructure. The FBI lists his Date of Birth as October 10, 1998.

    The video below explains how the FBI identified and indicted the GRU officers mentioned in the listing.

    FBI press conference on GRU officers

    This video is relevant as it details the specific indictments and activities of the GRU officers (Unit 26165 and 29155) listed in the sanctions notice.

    Entities

    1. BABBAR AKALI LEHAR

    • Group ID: 17226
    • Good quality a.k.a: BAL
    • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): CTD0012. (UK Statement of Reasons): “We have reasonable grounds to suspect that Babbar Akali Lehar (“BAL”) is an involved person on the basis that it has been involved in the following terrorist activity: (a) BAL has been and is promoting and encouraging terrorism, through promoting a person involved in terrorism, namely Babbar Khalsa (“BK”) which uses the alias Babbar Khalsa International (“BKI”) (together “BK/BKI”); (b) BAL is associated with a person involved in terrorism namely BK/BKI; and (c) BAL has been and is carrying out recruitment activities for persons involved in terrorism, namely themselves and BK/BKI.” (Website): babbarakali.com
    • Listed on: 04/12/2025 UK Sanctions List
    • Date Designated: 04/12/2025
    • Last Updated: 04/12/2025

    Supplemental Information: Babbar Akali Lehar (BAL) is a pro-Khalistan militant organization. The UK government designated it alongside Gurpreet Singh Rehal, citing its support for the banned terrorist group Babbar Khalsa International (BKI). The group is accused of promoting terrorism and recruiting for BKI activities.

    2. THE MAIN DIRECTORATE OF THE GENERAL STAFF OF THE ARMED FORCES OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION

    • Group ID: 17235
    • a.k.a: (1) GRU (2) Main Directorate (3) Main Intelligence Directorate
    • Address: Khoroshevskoye Shosse, 76, Moscow, Russia
    • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): RUS3149. (UK Statement of Reasons): The Secretary of State considers that there are reasonable grounds to suspect THE MAIN DIRECTORATE OF THE GENERAL STAFF OF THE ARMED FORCES OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION (GRU) is an involved person under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 based on the following ground: THE MAIN DIRECTORATE OF THE GENERAL STAFF OF THE ARMED FORCES OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION (GRU) is or has been involved in destabilising Ukraine or undermining the territorial security and sovereignty of Ukraine by engaging in, providing support for, or promoting actions which destabilise Ukraine or undermine or threaten the territorial integrity, sovereignty or independence of Ukraine.
    • Financial sanctions imposed in addition to an asset freeze: Trust services
    • Date trust services sanctions imposed: 04/12/2025
    • Listed on: 04/12/2025 UK Sanctions List
    • Date Designated: 04/12/2025
    • Last Updated: 04/12/2025

    Supplemental Information: The GRU (Glavnoye Razvedyvatelnoye Upravleniye) is the foreign military intelligence agency of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation. It controls the specialized cyber units (Unit 26165 and Unit 29155) whose officers were also designated in the parallel Cyber sanctions notice. The GRU has been implicated in numerous international incidents, including the 2018 Salisbury nerve agent attack and the 2016 U.S. election interference.

    ... Russian military intelligence: The GRU …

    This video provides context on the GRU and its activities, which is relevant to the entity listing for the “Main Directorate of the General Staff” and its associated units.

    —

    ,

  • UK designations for Russia and Cyber programs

    Today, FCDO issued the following notice:

    Policy paper

    New UK action against foreign information warfare

    Published 9 December 2025

    Across Europe, we are witnessing an escalation in hybrid threats – from physical through to cyber and information warfare – designed to destabilise our democracies, weaken our critical national infrastructure, and undermine our interests, all for the advantage of malign foreign states.

    Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI) operations are creating fake websites and using social media and bot accounts to undermine democratic elections and spread narratives in support of Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine. Russian organisations responsible for vast malign online networks like Doppelgänger specialise in flooding social media with counterfeit documents and deepfake material in English, German, and French, which advances Russia’s strategic aims.

    We are stepping up cooperation with European partners on hybrid and information threats, including through the UK-EU Security and Defence Partnership, and through deep cooperation between teams in the UK, in France, Germany, Poland and Brussels, to deliver a pan-European response to a pan-European threat.

    Since October 2024, this government has sanctioned 31 organisations and individuals responsible for delivering Russia’s information warfare. Today, the UK has gone further and sanctioned the following entities and individuals for their role in destabilising Ukraine:

    1. RYBAR LLC
    2. Mikhail Sergeevich ZVINCHUK
    3. FOUNDATION FOR THE SUPPORT AND PROTECTION OF THE RIGHTS OF COMPATRIOTS LIVING ABROAD (AKA PRAVFOND)
    4. EUROMORE
    5. GOLOS
    6. THE CENTRE FOR GEOPOLITICAL EXPERTISE
    7. Aleksandr Geljevitj DUGIN

    Rybar LLC & Mikhail Sergeevich Zvinchuk

    The UK has designated RYBAR LLC, a media company partially resourced by the Government of Russia, that hides its connections to the Russian state whilst running a covert FIMI network that promotes international support for the illegal invasion of Ukraine and interferes in global democratic processes, including elections in the EU and Moldova.

    Rybar uses classic Kremlin manipulation tactics, including fake “investigations” and AI driven content to respond rapidly to global events and shape narratives in the Kremlin’s favour.  Rybar is partially coordinated by the Presidential Administration, receives funding from Russian State corporation Rostec and works with members of the Russian Intelligence Services. The UK has also designated Mikhail Sergeevich ZVINCHUK, RYBAR LLC’s co-owner and General Director.

    Foundation for the Support and Protections of the Rights of Compatriots Living Abroad  (AKA PRAVFOND), Euromore and Golos

    The UK has designated Government of Russia-affiliated entities facilitating and delivering Russian propaganda which undermines international support for Ukraine. Leaked reports suggest PRAVFOND, attributed as a front for the GRU by Estonia, has funnelled money into EUROMORE and GOLOS, nominally independent news outlets which hide their connection to the Russian state, to spread Kremlin propaganda targeting Ukraine to European audiences.

    The Centre for Geopolitical Expertise and Aleksandr DUGIN

    The UK has designated the Moscow-based “think tank” Centre for Geopolitical Expertise (CGE) for funding and directing Russian FIMI networks that undermine international support for Ukraine, and its founder Aleksandr Dugin, a prominent supporter of the invasion of Ukraine whose work closely informs Putin’s calculations. The CGE is linked to the Russian Intelligence Services and has coordinated support for the Russian FIMI network known as Storm-1516 to further its aims of undermining Ukraine.

    Storm-1516 is a malign influence network which produces content that seeks to undermine European unity and create support for Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine. It repeatedly targets European political figures and domestic political parties with false and divisive claims, such as allegations of corruption or impropriety. These videos are then spread through social media accounts, news portals and inauthentic websites. Some of these inauthentic sites impersonate legitimate organisations or media outlets.

    Note

    Some of this analysis is drawn from Open Source material. As such, there is a risk that information may exist that contradicts, alters or strengthens the conclusions contained within this document.

    —

    , ,

  • OFSI’s Cyber sanctions additions, refrormatted

    Based on the Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) update for the Cyber sanctions regime dated 04/12/2025, the following additions have been made.

    Individuals

    • Boris Alekseyevich ANTONOV
      • Group ID: 17227
      • Name (non-Latin script): Борис Алексеевич АНТОНОВ
      • Nationality: Russia
      • Address: Russia
      • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): CYB0104.
      • UK Statement of Reasons: The Secretary of State considers that there are reasonable grounds to suspect that as part of Unit 26165, Boris ANTONOV has been involved in relevant cyber activity in that he was responsible for, engaging in, providing support for, or promoting the commission, planning or preparation of relevant cyber activity. Such activity that Boris ANTONOV has been involved in undermines, or is intended to undermine, the integrity, prosperity or security of the United Kingdom or a country other than the United Kingdom.
      • Gender: Male
      • Listed on: 04/12/2025
      • Last Updated: 04/12/2025
    • Anatoliy Vladimirovich ISTOMIN
      • Group ID: 17228
      • Name (non-Latin script): Анатолий Владимирович ИСТОМИН
      • Nationality: Russia
      • Address: Russia
      • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): CYB0105.
      • UK Statement of Reasons: The Secretary of State considers that there are reasonable grounds to suspect that as part of Unit 26165, Anatoliy Vladimirovich ISTOMIN has been involved in relevant cyber activity in that he was responsible for, engaging in, providing support for, or promoting the commission, planning or preparation of relevant cyber activity. Such activity that Anatoliy Vladimirovich ISTOMIN has been involved in undermines, or is intended to undermine, the integrity, prosperity or security of the United Kingdom or a country other than the United Kingdom.
      • Gender: Male
      • Listed on: 04/12/2025
      • Last Updated: 04/12/2025
    • Igor Andreyevich BOCHKA
      • Group ID: 17229
      • Name (non-Latin script): Игорь Андреевич БОЧКА
      • a.k.a: BOCHKA, Igor, Andreevich
      • Nationality: Russia
      • Address: Russia
      • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): CYB0106.
      • UK Statement of Reasons: The Secretary of State considers that there are reasonable grounds to suspect that a member of GRU Unit 26165, Igor Andreyevich BOCHKA has also been involved in relevant cyber activity in that he has been responsible for, engaging in, providing support for, or promoting the commission, planning or preparation of relevant cyber activity. Such activity that Igor Andreyevich BOCHKA has been involved in undermines, or is intended to undermine, the integrity, prosperity or security of the United Kingdom or a country other than the United Kingdom.
      • Gender: Male
      • Listed on: 04/12/2025
      • Last Updated: 04/12/2025
    • Aleksey Andreyevich UMETS
      • Group ID: 17230
      • Name (non-Latin script): Алексей Андреевич УМЕЦ
      • Nationality: Russia
      • Address: Russia
      • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): CYB0107.
      • UK Statement of Reasons: The Secretary of State considers that there are reasonable grounds to suspect that as part of Unit 26165, Aleksey Andreyevich UMETS has been involved in relevant cyber activity in that he was responsible for, engaging in, providing support for, or promoting the commission, planning or preparation of relevant cyber activity. Such activity that Aleksey Andreyevich UMETS has been involved in undermines, or is intended to undermine, the integrity, prosperity or security of the United Kingdom or a country other than the United Kingdom.
      • Gender: Male
      • Listed on: 04/12/2025
      • Last Updated: 04/12/2025
    • Pavel Vyacheslavovich YERSHOV
      • Group ID: 17231
      • Name (non-Latin script): Павел Вячеславович ЕРШОВ
      • Nationality: Russia
      • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): CYB0108.
      • UK Statement of Reasons: The Secretary of State considers that there are reasonable grounds to suspect that as part of Unit 26165, Pavel Vyacheslavovich YERSHOV has been involved in relevant cyber activity in that he has been responsible for, engaging in, providing support for, or promoting the commission, planning or preparation of relevant cyber activity. Such activity that Pavel Vyacheslavovich YERSHOV has been involved in undermines, or is intended to undermine, the integrity, prosperity or security of the United Kingdom or a country other than the United Kingdom.
      • Gender: Male
      • Listed on: 04/12/2025
      • Last Updated: 04/12/2025
    • Nikolay Yuryevich KOZACHEK
      • Group ID: 17232
      • Name (non-Latin script): Николай Юрьевич КОЗАЧЕК
      • Nationality: Russia
      • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): CYB0109.
      • UK Statement of Reasons: The Secretary of State considers that there are reasonable grounds to suspect that as part of Unit 26165, Nikolay Yuryevich KOZACHEK has been involved in relevant cyber activity in that he has been responsible for, engaging in, providing support for, or promoting the commission, planning or preparation of relevant cyber activity. Such activity that Nikolay Yuryevich KOZACHEK has been involved in undermines, or is intended to undermine, the integrity, prosperity or security of the United Kingdom or a country other than the United Kingdom.
      • Gender: Male
      • Listed on: 04/12/2025
      • Last Updated: 04/12/2025
    • Denis Igorevich DENISENKO
      • Group ID: 17233
      • Name (non-Latin script): Денис Игоревич ДЕНИСЕНКО
      • Nationality: Russia
      • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): CYB0110.
      • UK Statement of Reasons: The Secretary of State considers that there are reasonable grounds to suspect that Russian GRU 29155 Officer Senior Lieutenant Denis Igorevich DENISENKO is or has been responsible for, engaging in, providing support for, or promoting the commission, planning or preparation of relevant cyber activity. Additionally, DENISENKO remains associated with a GRU unit, which is a person who is or has been so involved in such activity. The activity that DENISENKO is or has been involved in undermines, or is intended to undermine, the integrity, prosperity or security of the United Kingdom or a country other than the United Kingdom.1
      • Gender: Male2
      • Listed on: 04/12/2025345
      • Last Updated: 04/12/2025678
    • Dmitriy Yuryevich GOLOSHUBOV91011
      • Group ID: 17234121314
      • Nam15e (non-Latin script): Дмитрий Юрьевич ГОЛОШУБОВ1617
      • Nationality: Russia1819
      • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): CYB0111.2021
      • UK Statement of Reasons:22 The Secretary of State 23considers that there are reasonable grounds to suspect that Russian GRU 29155 Officer Dmitriy Yuryevich GOLOSHUBOV is or has been responsible for, engaging in, providing support for, or promoting the commission, planning or preparation of relevant cyber activity. Additionally, GOLOSHUBOV remains associated with a GRU unit, which is a person who is or has been so involved in such activity. The activity that GOLOSHUBOV is or has been involved in undermines, or is intended to undermine, the integrity, prosperity or security of the United Kingdom or a country other than the United Kingdom.
      • Gender: Male
      • Listed on: 04/12/2025
      • Last Updated: 04/12/2025

    —

    ,

  • OFSI Russia sanctions additions, reformatted

    Based on the Annex to Notice_Russia_041225.pdf, here are the additions to the consolidated list, reformatted as requested:

    Based on the Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) update provided, here are the additions to the Russia financial sanctions regime, reformatted as requested.

    Entities

    1. THE MAIN DIRECTORATE OF THE GENERAL STAFF OF THE ARMED FORCES OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION (GRU)

    • Group ID: 17235
    • Name (non-Latin script): Гла́вное управле́ние Генера́льного шта́ба Вооружённых сил Росси́йской Федера́ции
    • a.k.a: (1) GRU (2) Main Directorate (3) Main Intelligence Directorate
    • Address: Khoroshevskoye Shosse, 76, Moscow, Russia.
    • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): RUS3149. Financial sanctions imposed in addition to an asset freeze: Trust services. Date trust services sanctions imposed: 04/12/2025. (UK Statement of Reasons): The Secretary of State considers that there are reasonable grounds to suspect THE MAIN DIRECTORATE OF THE GENERAL STAFF OF THE ARMED FORCES OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION (GRU) is an involved person under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 based on the following ground: THE MAIN DIRECTORATE OF THE GENERAL STAFF OF THE ARMED FORCES OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION (GRU) is or has been involved in destabilising Ukraine or undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty or independence of Ukraine.
    • Listed on: 04/12/2025 UK Sanctions List
    • Date Designated: 04/12/2025
    • Last Updated: 04/12/2025

    Supplemental Information: The GRU is Russia’s foreign military intelligence agency. This designation sanctions the agency in its entirety. The UK government stated this action was taken in response to the GRU’s “ongoing campaign of hostile activity,” including the 2018 Salisbury Novichok poisonings and malign activities across Europe and Ukraine.

    Individuals

    1. Yuriy Alekseevich SIZOV

    • Group ID: 17236
    • Name (non-Latin script): Юрий Алексеевич СИЗОВ
    • DOB: 17/02/1988
    • POB: St Petersburg, Russia
    • Nationality: Russia
    • National Identification Number: 784805190577
    • National Identification Details: Tax identification number1
    • Position: GRU officer2
    • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): RUS3150. Financial sanctions imposed in addition to an asset freeze: Trust services. Date trust services sanctions imposed: 04/12/2025. (UK Statement of Reasons): Yuriy Alekseevich SIZOV is an involved person under the Russia3 (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 on the basis that he is or has been destabilising Ukraine or undermining the territorial security and sovereignty of Ukraine by engaging in, providing support for,4 or promoting actions which destabilise Ukraine or undermine or threaten the territorial 5integrity, sovereignty or ind6ependence of Ukraine.
    • (Gender): Male
    • Listed on: 04/12/2025 UK Sanctions List
    • Date Designated: 04/12/2025
    • Last Updated: 04/12/2025

    Supplemental Information: Yuriy Sizov is identified as a GRU officer. He is reported to be part of a team (Unit 29155) involved in organizing sabotage operations in Western countries, working in coordination with other sanctioned officers like Denis Smolyaninov.

    2. Vladimir LIPCHENKO

    • Group ID: 17237
    • Name (non-Latin script): Владимир ЛИПЧЕНКО
    • DOB: 28/09/1974
    • a.k.a: (1) VLODEK (2) WLODEK
    • Nationality: Russia
    • Passport Number: 4015400649
    • Passport Details: Russian passport number
    • Position: GRU officer
    • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): RUS3151. Financial sanctions imposed in addition to an asset freeze: Trust services. Date trust services sanctions imposed: 04/12/2025. (UK Statement of Reasons): Vladimir LIPCHENKO is an involved person under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 on the basis that he is or has been destabilising Ukraine or undermining the territorial secur7ity and sovereignty of Ukraine by engaging in, providing support for, or promoting actions which destabilise Ukraine or undermin8e or threa9ten the territorial integrity, sovereignty or independence of Ukraine.101112
    • (Gender): Male131415
    • Listed on: 04/12/2025 UK Sanctions List161718
    • Date Designated: 04/12/2025192021
    • Last Updated: 04/12/2025222324

    Supplemental Information: Vladimir Lipchenko is a GRU officer wh25o also uses the alias “Vlodek” (or Wlodek). Reports indicate he works under the command of Denis Smolyaninov and has been involved in orchestrating sabotag26e activiti27es in the West.

    3. Denis Alexandrovich SMOLYANINOV

    • Group ID: 17238
    • Name (non-Latin script): Денис Александрович СМОЛЯНИНОВ
    • Title: Colonel
    • DOB: 26/08/1976
    • POB: Chelyabinsk, Russia
    • Nationality: Russia
    • National Identification Number: 672904784466
    • National Identification Details: Tax identification number
    • Position: GRU officer
    • Other Information: (UK Sanctions List Ref): RUS3152. Financial sanctions imposed in addition to an asset freeze: Trust services. Date trust services sanctions imposed: 04/12/2025. (UK Statement of Reasons): Denis Alexandrovich SMOLYANINOV (hereafter SMOLYANINOV) is an involved person under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 on the basis that: a) SMOLYANINOV is or has28 been obtaining a benefit from the Government of Russia, and is involved in destabilising Ukraine or b) SMOLYANINOV is 29or ha30s been destabilising Ukraine or undermining the territorial security and sovereignty of Ukraine by engaging in, providing support for, or promoting actions which destabilise Ukraine or undermine or threaten the territorial integrity, sovereignty or independence of Ukraine, namely the coordina31tion of hostile activities.32
    • (Gender): Male33
    • Listed on: 04/12/2025 UK Sanctions List34
    • Date Designated: 04/12/202535
    • Last Upd36ated: 04/12/2025

    Supplemental Information: Colonel Denis Smolyaninov is a high-ranking officer in the GRU’s Unit 29155. He has been accused by European intelligence agencies of recruiting “disposable agents” (often criminals) to carry out sabotage attacks, such as arson at DHL logistics hubs in the UK and Germany. He was also specifically named by the UK government as being responsible for plotting a terror attack on Ukrainian supermarkets.

    —

    ,

  • Daily Digest for Thursday, December 4, 2025

    Daily Digests are simple lists of hyperlinks to new content released by sanctions and export control regulators. When appropriate, additional posts of analysis and commentary, as well as summarizations and rephrasing of the contents will be posted separately.

    Mr. Sanctions does not attempt to comprehensively cover the worlds of sanctions and export control. Opinions expressed here are my own and do not represent that of my past current or future employers.

    —

    , , , , , , , , ,

  • Today’s OFAC Designations – reformatted and enhanced

    SPECIALLY DESIGNATED NATIONALS LIST UPDATE

    Original release from OFAC

    The following individuals have been added to OFAC’s SDN List:

    [SDGT] [TCO]

    • [SDGT] Global Terrorism Sanctions Regulations: 31 C.F.R. part 594
    • [TCO] Transnational Criminal Organizations Sanctions Regulations: 31 C.F.R. part 590; Executive Order 13581

    APONTE CORDOVA, Noe Manases

    • Aliases: “El Noe”
    • Country: Venezuela
    • DOB: 30 May 1988
    • POB: Venezuela
    • Nationality: Venezuela
    • Citizen: Venezuela
    • Gender: Male
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • ID: Cedula No. 19554865 (Venezuela)
    • Type: Individual
    • Linked To: TREN DE ARAGUA

    Supplemental Information:

    According to the U.S. Treasury, Aponte Cordova is a cell leader or lieutenant within the Tren de Aragua (TdA) criminal organization, operating out of Venezuela. He was designated for acting for or on behalf of TdA.

    ARAYA NAVARRO, Jimena Romina

    • Aliases: “ARAYA, Jimena”; “Rosita”
    • Countries: Venezuela; Colombia
    • DOB: 05 Sep 1983
    • Nationality: Venezuela
    • Gender: Female
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • ID: Cedula No. 16011070 (Venezuela)
    • Type: Individual
    • Linked To: TREN DE ARAGUA

    Supplemental Information:

    Jimena Araya, widely known by her stage name “Rosita,” is a prominent Venezuelan actress, model, and DJ. She gained initial fame for her role as “Rosita” in the Venevisión comedy show A que te ríes. Public records and news reports indicate she has a long-standing association with TdA leadership; she was arrested in Venezuela in 2012 for allegedly facilitating the prison escape of TdA leader Hector Rusthenford Guerrero Flores (“Niño Guerrero”) from the Tocorón penitentiary, though she was later released on bail.

    The Treasury Department identifies her as a key affiliate in the entertainment industry who provides material support to TdA. She reportedly uses her profession as a traveling DJ to move funds to the gang’s leadership, with a portion of her performance revenue being remitted to TdA. She is also the president of the designated entity Global Import Solutions S.A. and has been romantically linked to Niño Guerrero.

    ESCOBAR CABRERA, Asdrubal Rafael

    • Aliases: “El Asdrubal”
    • Country: Venezuela
    • DOB: 04 Aug 1992
    • POB: Venezuela
    • Nationality: Venezuela
    • Citizen: Venezuela
    • Gender: Male
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • ID: Cedula No. 21269516 (Venezuela)
    • Type: Individual
    • Linked To: TREN DE ARAGUA

    Supplemental Information:

    Escobar Cabrera is identified by the Treasury as a cell leader or lieutenant for Tren de Aragua, operating within Venezuela. He was designated for his role in acting for or on behalf of the organization.

    ESPINAL QUINTERO, Richard Jose

    • Aliases: ESPINEL QUINTERO, Richard Jose; “El Coty”
    • Country: Venezuela
    • DOB: 19 Apr 1996
    • POB: Venezuela
    • Nationality: Venezuela
    • Citizen: Venezuela
    • Gender: Male
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • ID: Cedula No. 24419648 (Venezuela)
    • Type: Individual
    • Linked To: TREN DE ARAGUA

    Supplemental Information:

    Like his associates Aponte Cordova and Escobar Cabrera, Espinal Quintero serves as a cell leader or lieutenant for Tren de Aragua in Venezuela and was designated for acting on behalf of the criminal group.

    GUERRERO PALMA, Cheison Royer

    • Aliases: “Arabe Negro”; “Mexicali”
    • Country: Chile
    • DOB: 16 Feb 1985
    • POB: Maracay, Aragua, Venezuela
    • Nationality: Venezuela
    • Gender: Male
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • ID: Cedula No. 17984659 (Venezuela)
    • Type: Individual
    • Linked To: TREN DE ARAGUA

    Supplemental Information:

    Cheison Royer Guerrero Palma is the half-brother of the notorious Tren de Aragua leader, Hector Rusthenford Guerrero Flores (“Niño Guerrero”). According to the Treasury Department, he has been directly involved in the organization’s expansion efforts into Chile.

    LANDAETA HERNANDEZ, Eryk Manuel

    • Aliases: “Eryk”
    • Country: Colombia
    • DOB: 29 Aug 1982
    • Nationality: Venezuela
    • Gender: Male
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • ID: Cedula No. 15978329 (Venezuela)
    • Type: Individual
    • Linked To: TREN DE ARAGUA

    Supplemental Information:

    Eryk Landaeta Hernandez is described as the former financial and logistics chief for Tren de Aragua in Bogota, Colombia, until his reported arrest by Colombian authorities in October 2024. He previously served as the bodyguard and manager for Jimena Araya (“Rosita”).

    Treasury reports state that he used his companies, Eryk Producciones SAS and Maiquetia VIP Bar Restaurant, to organize events that facilitated narcotics sales and money laundering for TdA leaders, including Niño Guerrero and Giovanni Vicente Mosquera Serrano.

    SEVILLA ARTEAGA, Kenffersso Jhosue

    • Aliases: MARTINEZ LOPEZ, Jose Daniel; SEVILLA ARTEGA, Kenffersso Jhosue; SEVILLA ATEAGA, Kenferson; “El Flipper”; “Flypper”
    • Country: Colombia
    • DOB: 29 Apr 1993
    • POB: Venezuela
    • Nationality: Venezuela
    • Citizen: Venezuela
    • Gender: Male
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • ID: Cedula No. 21098983 (Venezuela); alt. Cedula No. 1047240759 (Colombia)
    • Type: Individual
    • Linked To: TREN DE ARAGUA

    Supplemental Information:

    Known as “El Flipper,” Sevilla Arteaga was considered the “right-hand man” of TdA leader Niño Guerrero until his arrest in Cucuta, Colombia, in November 2025.

    He served as a financial leader for the gang, orchestrating extortions, kidnappings, and homicides. He managed shell businesses and illegal rent schemes across multiple countries, including Venezuela, Peru, Ecuador, Chile, Mexico, and the United States. He utilized the alias “Jose Daniel Martinez Lopez” to operate the Colombian entity Yakera y Lane SAS.

    The following entities have been added to OFAC’s SDN List:

    [SDGT] [TCO]

    • [SDGT] Global Terrorism Sanctions Regulations: 31 C.F.R. part 594
    • [TCO] Transnational Criminal Organizations Sanctions Regulations: 31 C.F.R. part 590; Executive Order 13581

    ERYK PRODUCCIONES SAS

    • Address: Bogota, Colombia
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Organization Established Date: 23 Jun 2023
    • Organization Type: Creative, arts and entertainment activities
    • ID: NIT # 901726321-4 (Colombia)
    • Linked To: LANDAETA HERNANDEZ, Eryk Manuel

    Supplemental Information:

    This company is owned and controlled by Eryk Manuel Landaeta Hernandez. According to the Treasury, it was used to organize entertainment events which served as venues for TdA’s narcotics sales and money laundering operations.

    GLOBAL IMPORT SOLUTIONS S.A.

    • Address: Anaco, Anzoategui, Venezuela
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Organization Established Date: 20 Jul 2021
    • ID: Tax ID No. J411408778 (Venezuela)
    • Linked To: ARAYA NAVARRO, Jimena Romina

    Supplemental Information:

    This Venezuela-based company is owned and presided over by Jimena Araya (“Rosita”). It was designated for acting for or on her behalf.

    MAIQUETIA VIP BAR RESTAURANT

    • Aliases: MAIQUETIA VIP; “DISCOTECA MAIQUETIA VIP”
    • Address: Cl. 17 Sur #16-54, Bogota, Colombia
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Organization Established Date: 17 Dec 2020
    • Organization Type: Beverage serving activities
    • ID: Matricula Mercantil No 3319256 (Colombia)
    • Linked To: LANDAETA HERNANDEZ, Eryk Manuel

    Supplemental Information:

    Owned by Eryk Manuel Landaeta Hernandez, this Bogota nightclub was a known performance venue for Jimena Araya (“Rosita”). Treasury investigations reveal the venue was used to sell drugs on behalf of TdA, with proceeds subsequently laundered for the gang’s leadership.

    YAKERA Y LANE SAS

    • Aliases: YAKERA YLANE S.A.S.
    • Address: Cucuta, Norte de Santander, Colombia
    • Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886
    • Organization Established Date: 20 Jun 2019
    • Organization Type: Wholesale and retail trade
    • ID: NIT # 901296366-9 (Colombia)
    • Linked To: SEVILLA ARTEAGA, Kenffersso Jhosue

    Supplemental Information: This Colombian entity is involved in wholesale and retail trade and is owned by Kenffersso Jhosue Sevilla Arteaga (“El Flipper”), who operated it under his alias “Jose Daniel Martinez Lopez.”

    So, what do you think of this way of reformatting the OFAC release and adding in info from elsewhere (I included info from the press release, and tried to find other online information)? Just a first cut… if I can find better ways of presenting this, I am certainly open to that.

    —

  • Daily Digest for Wednesday, December 3, 2025

    Daily Digests are simple lists of hyperlinks to new content released by sanctions and export control regulators. When appropriate, additional posts of analysis and commentary, as well as summarizations and rephrasing of the contents will be posted separately.

    Mr. Sanctions does not attempt to comprehensively cover the worlds of sanctions and export control. Opinions expressed here are my own and do not represent that of my past current or future employers.

    —

    , ,