Ukraine: Federal Council implements 20th package of sanctions in line with previous practice
Berne, 19.08.2026 — On 19 August, the Federal Council decided to adopt the further measures from the European Union’s (EU) 20th sanctions package against Russia in line with previous practice. The new measures will take effect on 20 August. Switzerland already added 115 individuals and entities to its sanctions list on 22 May.
In response to Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine, the EU adopted new measures against Russia on 23 April as part of its 20th package of sanctions. These include measures to further weaken the Russian energy sector and to prevent circumvention of the sanctions.
The Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER) expanded Switzerland’s sanctions lists on 22 May to include an additional 115 individuals and entities (Ukraine: Switzerland expands its sanctions lists). This means that around 2,790 individuals and entities are currently subject to asset freezes in Switzerland in connection with Russia’s war against Ukraine.
Measures targeting the energy sector
In the energy sector, the Federal Council has issued new service bans relating to liquefied natural gas tankers and icebreakers, as well as liquefied natural gas terminals in Russia. Additionally, there is now a ban on selling tankers to Russia. Contracts for the sale of tankers to third countries must now include a clause prohibiting their transfer to Russia.
Measures targeting the trade sector
Following the EU, Switzerland is activating the so-called Anti-Circumvention Tool for the first time. This tool aims at preventing sanctions circumvention via third countries. In practical terms, this measure now prohibits the export of certain sensitive goods to the Kyrgyz Republic.
In addition, the Federal Council has decided to extend the existing export ban on goods that strengthen Russia’s military and technological capabilities as well as goods that strengthen Russia’s industry. Finally, further restrictions will be introduced on the import of economically significant goods that generate substantial revenue for Russia.
Measures targeting the financial sector
In the financial sector, the Federal Council has now banned the use of Russian platforms for the transfer and exchange of crypto-assets. The measure is intended to prevent Russia from using alternative means of payment to circumvent sanctions. Support for the development of certain Russian cryptocurrencies, such as the digital Rouble, is likewise prohibited.
Further measures
The Federal Council has adopted further measures to protect Swiss companies, in particular to safeguard their intellectual property rights and to protect them from abusive Russian court rulings. In addition, the existing ban on accepting grants from the Russian government has been extended to include companies in the research and innovation sector, as well as research and educational institutions.
AS 2026 424 - Verordnung über Massnahmen im Zusammenhang mit der Situation in der Ukraine | Fedlex
Address for enquiries
Companies:
sanctions@seco.admin.ch
+41 58 464 08 12