President Volodymyr Zelensky signed four decrees on Aug. 20 targeting Russia's military-industrial complex, propaganda efforts, and the creators of the cartoon 'Masha and the Bear.'

President Volodymyr Zelensky signed four new sanctions decrees on Aug. 20 targeting Russia's military-industrial complex and propaganda apparatus. The measures include restrictions on individuals and entities linked to defense production, sanctions evasion, and the promotion of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Among the targets are former Ukrainian lawmaker Yurii Ivanyushchenko and the creators of the Russian animated series 'Masha and the Bear.'

Defense and Industrial Sanctions

One decree targets 28 Russian citizens, 36 Russian companies, and one Chinese firm involved in Russia's defense industry. These entities are accused of supplying high-precision industrial equipment, developing software for security forces, and researching drones. A separate decree focuses on five companies owned by the aluminum giant Rusal and nine affiliated individuals, citing their role in importing raw materials used to produce missiles, artillery, and military aircraft.

Targeting Propaganda and Former Officials

A third decree sanctions 45 individuals and eight entities accused of promoting Russia's occupation of Ukraine. This list includes Yurii Ivanyushchenko, a former member of the pro-Russian Party of Regions and an ally of ousted President Viktor Yanukovych. Ivanyushchenko is accused of maintaining ties to Russian criminal and business circles and operating companies in occupied Crimea.

Restrictions on 'Masha and the Bear'

The fourth decree targets the animation studio Animaccord and five individuals involved in the creation and distribution of the children's cartoon 'Masha and the Bear.' The government stated the program spreads pro-Russian narratives disguised as children's content. The sanctions prohibit the studio from disseminating media in Ukraine and authorize the government to block the series on platforms like YouTube.