Guernsey and Isle of Man added to Russia's list of 'unfriendly states and territories'

The Isle of Man has been added to Russia's list of 'unfriendly' states and territories.

Russia - which invaded Ukraine in February - has accused the Island's government of supporting economic restrictions on it, its citizens and companies.

The Isle of Man Government introduced sanctions against Russia earlier in the year in response to the invasion of Ukraine, mirroring the move from the British Government.

This involved freezing UK held assets in five Russian Banks and those of three wealthy individuals.

The Russian Cabinet press service, RIA Novosti said: "The government has expanded the list of foreign countries and regions that have committed unfriendly acts against Russia, Russian companies and citizens.

It continued: "An order has been signed for this purpose. The list [now] includes Guernsey and the Isle of Man, which support the sanctions imposed by the UK on Russia, Russian citizens and companies.”

But the Manx Government says being added Russia's list is "evidence" their sanctions, and that of the UK and the EU, are "beginning to be felt by Moscow."

A spokesperson said: "We are only relatively small in global terms, but as we have said, we have added our voice to the many who have condemned the Russian government’s actions, and hopefully, the impact of these economic sanctions will continue to grow."

The Bahamas and Guernsey have also been added to the list.

External Affairs Minister Jonathan Le Tocq said: "Clearly little Guernsey’s sanctions are beginning to bite..."

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