Australia sanctions 35 Russian organizations, 10 individuals from Russia and Belarus

WASHINGTON. July 20 (Interfax) - Australia has imposed sanctions on 35 organizations of Russia's defense, technology and energy sectors and ten individuals from Russia and Belarus, the Australian Foreign Ministry said.

"The sanctions imposed today are directed at entities and individuals of economic and strategic significance to Russia," a statement prepared by Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Tim Watts said.

The sanctions target Russian companies that supply advanced technologies, electronics and equipment to the Russian Armed Forces and Russian entities involved in nuclear energy and Arctic resource extraction, according to the statement. The measures also apply to major Russian defense industry enterprises, including Russian Helicopters, a manufacturer of military helicopters, and the company's CEO Nikolai Kolesov.

The designated individuals include Russian First Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov and Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko, as well as "senior military personnel in Belarus."

These restrictive measures have been taken in careful coordination with international partners, the Foreign Ministry said.

"Today's sanctions underline Australia's commitment to working with partners to maintain pressure on Russia," Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said.