What just happened? Three years after Russia invaded Ukraine, the UK has joined the European Union in a new round of sanctions targeting technology exports. The latest measures include restrictions on video game controllers and other consumer electronics, with officials stating their goal is to degrade Russia’s military capabilities.

While the Pentagon now uses custom-built controllers to operate its systems, Russia continues to rely on off-the-shelf video game controllers manufactured in the West. Authorities in the UK aim to block exports of these devices after reports revealed that Russian forces have repurposed them to control drones in Ukraine air strikes.

The controller ban is part of 150 new trade sanctions imposed by the UK, which is now aligning with the EU’s earlier strategy. Foreign Office Minister Stephen Doughty says Russia has exploited British consumer markets for too long by purchasing seemingly harmless gaming products and repurposing them for military use.

“Video game consoles will no longer be exploited to kill people in Ukraine,” he said.

Officials in London say the new measures aim to clamp down on Russia’s efforts to circumvent trade restrictions and acquire equipment for its military. Doughty confirmed that gaming controllers are part of a broader package of export bans designed to weaken Russia’s armed forces.

Other banned products include software for identifying new fuel sources such as oil and gas. The sanctions also cover exports of chemicals, electronics, metals, machinery, and software tools linked to the energy and defense sectors. Doughty said these technologies could contribute to Russia’s weapons production.

The UK announced the new sanctions following one of Russia’s deadliest strikes on Kyiv in recent weeks. On Thursday, Russian forces launched a barrage of “dumb” missiles and 215 drones overnight, killing nine people and injuring dozens more. Russia claimed the attack targeted Ukraine’s military facilities.

After the attack, UK Foreign Minister David Lammy condemned Russia for targeting Ukrainians while Kyiv officials were in London to discuss a potential peace treaty. Even President Donald Trump, who previously expressed trust in Vladimir Putin’s word regarding Ukraine’s invasion, called on the Russian leader to “stop” killing civilians once and for all.