The UK has announced a fresh round of sanctions against individuals and organisations it says are responsible for cyber attacks and hybrid operations linked to Russian intelligence, in a move aimed at countering efforts to destabilise Europe.

Senior GRU figures sanctioned

The measures, announced on Monday, target 24 individuals and entities accused of playing a role in cyber activities that British officials say have sought to spread disruption, undermine security and fuel division across Europe.

In a statement, the government said: "Today’s action targets 24 individuals and entities behind the destructive cyber and hybrid operations including cybercriminals involved in proxy networks linked to the Russian Intelligence Services."

The sanctions also target senior figures within Russia's military intelligence agency, the GRU. According to the government, those sanctioned include Vyacheslav Stafeyev, Ivan Senin and Ivan Kasyanenko, who are accused of overseeing cyber and hybrid threat operations.

The statement added: "This includes sanctioning GRU senior leadership figures Vyacheslav Stafeyev, Ivan Senin and Ivan Kasyanenko for their role in directing GRU cyber and hybrid threat operations."

Coordinated action with the European Union

The latest measures were announced in coordination with the European Union, reflecting a broader effort by European allies to respond collectively to what they describe as an ongoing cyber threat from Russia.

Russia's embassy in London did not immediately respond to the announcement or comment on the allegations.

The sanctions form part of the UK's continuing efforts to strengthen its response to cyber threats and to work alongside international partners to protect European security.

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