News Today: US Sanctions on Sri Lankan Ex-Officials

The United States has imposed sanctions on Kapila Chandrasena, former CEO of SriLankan Airlines, and Udayanga Weeratunga, former Ambassador to Russia, along with their families. These measures, announced on International Anti-Corruption Day, underscore US efforts to combat global corruption and human rights violations.

Chandrasena is accused of taking bribes to facilitate the purchase of overpriced Airbus aircraft for the national carrier. Meanwhile, Weeratunga allegedly orchestrated a corrupt scheme in the procurement of MiG aircraft for the Sri Lanka Air Force. Both individuals have been designated under Section 7031(c) of the annual Department of State Appropriations Act, barring them from entering the US.

The State Department has also taken steps to impose visa restrictions on dozens of individuals linked to corruption and human rights abuses. These actions highlight the US commitment to promoting global accountability and justice.