Three years ago, Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, expecting victory within days. Instead, he found himself locked in a drawn-out war that has cost countless lives and shattered global stability. Now, as the conflict reaches its third anniversary, Britain is stepping up the pressure on the Kremlin once again, this time by slamming the door on Putin’s closest allies.
Under new measures announced today, Kremlin-linked elites, those who owe their wealth, power, or status to the Putin regime, will be added to the UK’s exclusion list. Simply put: if you’re bankrolling Russia’s war machine, you’re no longer welcome on British soil.
Security minister Dan Jarvis called the move “a tightening of the screw” on Russia and a clear signal of Britain’s unwavering support for Ukraine.
“This will prevent people travelling to the United Kingdom the way that they have done recently,” he told Sky News this morning. “That is a good thing that will make a material difference.”
Jarvis made it clear that this is not just about symbolic gestures, it’s about using every tool available to counter Putin’s aggression.
“Border security is national security,” he said. “The measures announced today slam the door shut to the oligarchs who have enriched themselves at the expense of the Russian people whilst bankrolling this illegal and unjustifiable war.”
And his message to Putin’s allies? “You are not welcome in the UK.”
‘We Will Do What It Takes’
Defence secretary John Healey echoed that sentiment, reinforcing Britain’s commitment to standing by Ukraine for the long haul.
“As we mark the third anniversary of Russia’s illegal invasion, Putin is still waging a war he thought he would win in three days, because of the fierce resistance from the Ukrainians,” he said. “Our support for them is unshakeable.”
He added that keeping Ukraine strong is not just about defending their sovereignty, but also about ensuring Britain’s own security.
“These new measures send a powerful message that we will do what it takes to turn the tables on Putin’s aggression.”
A War Far From Over
Despite heavy losses and international sanctions, Putin’s war effort continues. Russian forces remain entrenched in Ukraine, and the human cost of the conflict keeps rising.
Britain’s latest crackdown is part of a wider strategy to isolate the Russian elite, disrupt their networks, and show that supporting the Kremlin comes with consequences.
The message from Westminster is clear: as long as Russia continues its assault on Ukraine, those enabling the war will find no refuge here.
