Former Russian-Appointed Governor Convicted in UK’s First Russia Sanctions Case

In a landmark ruling, Dmitrii Ovsiannikov, the former Russian-appointed Governor of Sevastopol, has become the first individual to be convicted in the United Kingdom for breaching sanctions imposed in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Ovsiannikov, who served as governor of the illegally annexed Ukrainian city from 2016 to 2019 following his appointment by Russian President Vladimir Putin, was found guilty of circumventing UK sanctions and engaging in money laundering. His brother, Alexei Owsjanikow, was also convicted for facilitating the breach by providing financial and material support.

Circumventing Sanctions

Despite being placed on the UK sanctions list in 2019, Ovsiannikov managed to enter the UK legally in early 2023 using a British passport obtained through his father’s nationality. He reunited with his wife and two children in Clapham, South London, at his brother’s residence.

Shortly after arriving, Ovsiannikov attempted to establish a bank account into which his wife transferred £76,000. The funds were used to place a deposit on a luxury Mercedes Benz GLC 300. Although the account was later frozen upon the bank discovering his sanctioned status, Ovsiannikov recovered the deposit. His brother then purchased the car and insured it under his name, allowing Dmitrii to use it—a direct violation of UK sanctions.

In a further breach, Alexei paid over £40,000 in school fees for Ovsiannikov’s children just months later. These actions, prosecutors said, were clear attempts to sidestep restrictions placed on designated individuals.

Enforcement and Accountability

Authorities arrested Dmitrii Ovsiannikov in January 2024. His brother cooperated with investigators during a voluntary interview. Prosecutors emphasized that both men were fully aware of the legal boundaries, particularly as Dmitrii had previously petitioned the Foreign Office to lift his designation.

“This verdict sends a clear message,” said Graeme Biggar, Director General of the National Crime Agency (NCA). “We are not only targeting sanctioned individuals but also those who assist them in skirting the law.”

The convictions are credited to the efforts of the NCA’s Combatting Kleptocracy Cell, which has carried out over 180 interventions targeting Russian elites and their networks since the invasion of Ukraine began in 2022.

Political Reaction

FCDO Sanctions Minister Stephen Doughty welcomed the verdict, stating: “Mr. Ovsiannikov thought he could hide from our sanctions. Today’s verdict proves otherwise. We are resolutely committed to pressuring Putin, his cronies, and their enablers.”

The case marks a pivotal moment in the UK’s enforcement of its sanctions regime, demonstrating a growing resolve to hold Russian-affiliated individuals accountable, particularly those benefiting from ties to the Kremlin.

Next Steps

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) confirmed that proceeds of crime proceedings will follow to recover assets obtained in violation of the sanctions. Julius Capon, CPS Unit Head Prosecutor, stressed the broader implications: “We hope this case sets a strong precedent. Sanctions are not symbolic—they have teeth, and those who defy them will face consequences.”

With these convictions, UK authorities reaffirm their commitment to enforcing sanctions robustly, signalling that both violators and their enablers will be brought to justice.