THE United States called today for tougher sanctions against Russia and additional support for the Ukrainian government on the eve of the first anniversary of Moscow’s invasion.

Speaking at a meeting of the Group of 20  (G20) leading economies in India, US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said that sanctions against Russia were working but more needed to be done to obstruct the country’s war effort.

“We are seeking to strengthen sanctions and make sure that we address violations of sanctions,” she said, noting that the Russians were seeking alternative ways to “backfill” parts and equipment to replace and repair weapons damaged in the war.

Ms Yellen said the US expected to provide another $10 billion (£8.32bn) in assistance to Ukraine, on top of the more than $46bn (£38.3bn) already provided.

“We very much want to see the [International Monetary Fund] negotiate an agreement to lend to Ukraine,” she added, noting that the fund’s managing director hopes to work out a full programme by the end of March.

A US-led campaign, which includes 37 Western nations, has imposed economic sanctions on Russia since the beginning of its attack on Ukraine with the aim of impairing Moscow’s ability to fund the war.

The sanctions included blocks on key imports such as spare parts for military aircraft and electronics, while hundreds of companies have also pulled out of doing business in Russia.

However, a handful of countries have filled the resulting gap by increasing exports to Russia, according to recent data from Washington non-profit organisation Silverado Policy Accelerator.

China and Turkey make up most of the export gap on their own, but North Korea has shipped a “significant” amount of artillery shells and other military equipment.

The sanctions could still have a devastating effect on Russia’s economy in the long term, such as a forced cut in oil production.

At least 40 countries have provided military aid to Ukraine since the war broke out, either by sending weapons or by giving other forms of support such as training.

Spain confirmed on Wednesday that it would send six refurbished Leopard 2 tanks by the end of March or early April, following a request by President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Finland followed suit today by announcing a $619 million (£515m) aid package for Ukraine that includes three of the same tanks.