BRAINTREE’S MP has condemned Russia’s “sham referendums” as Britain imposes a new round of sanctions 

The polls on joining the Russian Federation – held in Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia – have been widely condemned as illegal by Western nations. 

The move has been seen as a sign of desperation by President Vladimir Putin who is thought to want to incorporate them into Russia so that he can claim any further advances by the Ukrainians are an attack on Russia – something he has warned could be met with a nuclear response. 

In response, the Foreign Office (FCDO) said it is imposing travel bans and asset freezes on 33 officials and “collaborators” involved in organising the votes. 

Announcing the move, Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said: “Sham referendums held at the barrel of a gun cannot be free or fair and we will never recognise their results. 

“They follow a clear pattern of violence, intimidation, torture and forced deportations in the areas of Ukraine Russia has seized. 

“Today’s sanctions will target those behind these sham votes, as well as the individuals that continue to prop up the Russian regime’s war of aggression. 

“We stand with the Ukrainian people and our support will continue as long as it takes to restore their sovereignty.”