An investigation by the Kyiv Independent found that over 1500 Ram 1500 pickup trucks have been shipped to Russia since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, despite US sanctions. The trucks were exported through companies based in the UAE and other countries that have not joined Western sanctions against Russia.
The investigation found that several companies, including Mehrzad Cargo & Shipping L.L.C., Automax Motors FZE, and Fine Cars EAEU – FZE, had shipped Ram 1500 pickup trucks to Russian companies without proper US export authorization. The vehicles were often sold through intermediaries, with the final buyers unknown.
The Kyiv Independent was unable to confirm which company shipped the pickup trucks shown in a recent Russian drone factory propaganda video, but noted that none of the vehicles identified in their investigation should have entered Russia without the necessary US license after US restrictions were imposed.
The investigation highlighted the practice of “transshipment,” where US-made vehicles are exported through companies based in countries that have not joined Western sanctions against Russia. This process is a violation of US export controls, and companies engaging in it could be subject to secondary sanctions.
The Kyiv Independent’s findings suggest that despite US restrictions on trade with Russia, there are still ways for American-made goods to reach the country. The investigation was driven by unexpected footage in a Russian military video showing pickup trucks equipped with Shahed-style attack drones.
The Kyiv Independent is an independent news organization that relies on community support to fund its reporting. Donations can be made through their website to support investigative work like this.
