Targeted measures aimed at individuals tend to revolutionize the practice and functions of "sanctions" in international relations. Once confined to the register of "measures not involving the use of force" under Article 41 of the UN Charter or that of "countermeasures" under the law of international state responsibility, they may reshape the structure of international security by seeking immediate individual accountability of targeted persons rather than the accountability of States. In the context of the unprecedented sanctions imposed on Russia, the "freeze and seize Task Forces" set up by the EU and the US are a clear example of this trend. "Asset freezing" has become the symbol of astill emerginginternational public order based upon individual accountability and respect for international humanitarian law, international human rights law as well as the rule of law and even the fight against corruption and economic crime. This trend, which offers a glimpse into the future of "international sanctions", deserves informed developments.