The Russian-Ukrainian conflict: some issues regarding sanctions in International Law and a new trend?

Abstract

The present article tries to become a reflection on the recent events related to the invasion or armed attack of the Russian Federation against Ukraine. In this sense, the Charter of the United Nations limits or calls States to refrain from the use or threat of force. However, what is of interest is the reaction that this event has provoked in the “international community”,
which has generated a striking vehemence condemnation. All these actions can be seen not only against the Russian state and government, but also against the nationals of that country. Examples of this are the exclusions from international sports competitions (FIFA, IOC, ATP, etc.) or from international banking such as the SWIFT system and even requests for suspension of
students from international academic events such as the MOOT COURT. These measures alter the legal certainty, the global commercial and financial relations; and affect people not linked to the conflict, provoking a reaction rarely seen, but one that has not been witnessed in other similar situations. Because of this, it is appropriate to analyze the legality of these measures
under the current framework of International Law.