How to Lift Personal Sanctions in Ukraine: A Case Handled by VB Partner

In the context of armed conflict, sanctions policy becomes a key component of national security. However, even such critically important mechanisms are not immune to error. What should you do if you or your company have been designated based on inaccurate or outdated information? Is it possible to restore your reputation and protect your interests using legal mechanisms?

VB Partners has successfully handled such a case, offering experience that may be valuable to both individuals and international corporations.

Case Overview

In February 2023, the President of Ukraine issued a decree imposing personal sanctions on a French national — a former top executive of one of the world’s largest financial groups. The basis for this decision was his alleged participation in the governing body of a Russian bank.

However, during court proceedings, it was established that the sanctions were based on outdated and unverified information. At the time they were imposed, the client had no links to the mentioned bank.

VB Partners presented comprehensive evidence demonstrating the client's lack of involvement with the financial institution located in the aggressor state. The court accepted this argument and annulled the sanctions as unfounded.

This court decision is subject to appeal to the Grand Chamber of the Supreme Court.

More detailed information about the Ukrainian sanctions framework, current restrictions, and applicable legal mechanisms can be found on the website: https://ukrainiansanctions.com/

Legal Significance

This case highlights several systemic issues within Ukraine’s sanctions policy:

1. Lack of a delisting process. Even when errors are acknowledged by the initiators of sanctions, the only way to revoke them is through a lengthy judicial process.
   
   
2. Errors in sanctions lists. Under crisis conditions, proper verification is often bypassed, leading to unjustified designation.
   
   
3. Limited successful court precedents. Most sanctions cases take years to resolve, and favorable court rulings are rare.
   
   
4. Judicial oversight strengthens the sanctions regime. A fair and transparent legal review process enhances the legitimacy and credibility of sanctions policy.
   
   

VB Partners’ Practice

With over a decade of experience in sanctions-related litigation, VB Partners has developed a unique legal expertise. We effectively defend our clients’ interests using strictly legal arguments and court procedures.

The successful annulment of sanctions in this case proves that even under significant political and legal pressure, justice can prevail when approached with professionalism and legal rigor.

Conclusion

Personal sanctions are not only a political matter, but also a legal one. The accuracy of their application affects business reputation, financial access, and international operations.

The case handled by VB Partners demonstrates that, with a strong legal position and expert defense, it is possible to reverse unjust sanctions and fully restore one’s rights.