The UK Foreign Office introduced new legislation Thursday, imposing sanctions on those linked to Russia in the event they invade Ukraine.

The new legislation that came into effect 1700 GMT will allow the UK to extend sanctions to those indirectly linked to the destabilization of Ukraine. Section 6(4) of the amendment includes “Government of Russia affiliated entities,” including “owners, directors, and trustees.” The laws will impose penalties on people close to the Kremlin, such as Russian oligarchs who threaten the independence of Ukraine and its sovereignty. It further will sanction those who benefit from supporting the Russian government in such attempts.

The tougher sanctions come amidst the rising tensions as Russian military troops increase near the Ukraine border, despite Russia denying any intention to invade Ukraine. The UK foreign office has warned that Russia holding military exercises in Belarus is creating a “dangerous moment,” making the new sanctions necessary. An international effort has begun to diminish the consequences of an invasion, with the UK extending sanctions on sectors such as defense, energy, financial service information, and transport.

Liz Truss, the UK Foreign Secretary, spoke to Sergei Lavrov, who added the UK position on the matter, stating that the decision of the UK to stop an invasion was to “pursue a diplomatic path.”