Czechia sanctions Russia’s top Orthodox cleric

The move was approved by the Czech government on April 26, according to the updated sanctions list posted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ukrinform reports with reference to Radio Prague International.

The restrictions include an entry ban and asset freeze in the country. National sanctions are introduced in line with the so-called "Magnitsky Law", which entered into force in January.

The law, which is the Czech version of the Magnitsky Act, was introduced at the suggestion of the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs against the backdrop of Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine in order to put an end to the activities of organizations and regimes that violate human rights, apply terrorist tools and cyber attacks.

A decision to put someone on the sanctions list is made by the Czech government based on a motion filed by the country’s foreign ministry.