The US announced new sanctions against Russia on Friday in response to its invasion of Ukraine, targeting sectors such as banks and defense industries.

The sanctions aim to increase economic pressure on Russia and restrict its access to crucial technologies, including semiconductors.

Over 200 individuals and entities will be affected, including both Russian and third-party actors across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East that supports Russia’s was effort, the statement from the White House stated.

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In addition to targeting new entities and individuals, the U.S sanctions will also aim to tighten the enforcement of previous sanctions and prevent Moscow from evading them. This will involve measures to limit Russia’s ability to use front companies, shell corporations, and other deceptive tactics to access the international financial system and evade existing sanctions.

The U.S Treasury Department will also increase its scrutiny of financial transactions involving Russia and impose tougher penalties on those found to be violating the sanctions.

The move was welcomed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who called the sanctions “a strong message to Russia.”