UK launches first sanctions in new strategy to deter migrant crossings

Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer (L) and Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz (R). [AFP]

The UK imposed sanctions Wednesday on more than two dozen people, groups and suppliers from the Balkans, the Middle East and China accused of helping migrants cross the Channel.

In what it called a "landmark" first use of new powers, the move came as the government faces political pressure to stem migrant arrivals on small boats from northern France, at record levels.