Summary
The US has imposed sanctions on Gazprombank, Russia’s last major bank not previously blacklisted, and its six international subsidiaries, effectively cutting it off from global finance.
Previously spared to maintain European gas flows, the bank is now targeted due to its alleged role in financing Russia’s military and supporting the Ukraine war.
Over 50 other Russian banks and 15 officials were also sanctioned, with warnings issued against institutions using Russia’s alternative financial messaging system.
Side benefit is the countries that did not prepare will now also need to look for alternatives… or maybe pay with goods.