**German Company Ships Restricted Technology to Russia Despite EU Sanctions**
A German-based tech company, Kontron, has been accused of exporting sensitive technology to Russia via its Slovenian subsidiary, despite a new round of EU sanctions. According to a report by Politico on May 23, Kontron used the Slovenian entity to ship over $3.9 million worth of telecommunications equipment to its Russian subsidiary, Iskra Technologies.
The shipments included 11 deliveries and included the SI3000 telecommunications platform, which is a dual-use product capable of monitoring and intercepting communications. This move appears to have circumvented multiple rounds of EU sanctions introduced in 2023 targeting dual-use and sensitive technologies.
Kontron claimed that the exports were related to pre-sanction contracts and were authorized by Slovenian authorities under previously issued licenses. However, Politico reported that EU sanctions apply to all dual-use technology contracts, including those signed before the restrictions took effect. Exceptions may exist, but only in specific cases such as cybersecurity, medical use, or emergencies.
This incident is not an isolated case. Despite extensive Western sanctions aimed at cutting off supply lines, Russia continues to obtain sanctioned goods, such as microchips, via third-party countries. Kyiv’s allies have sought to halt the Kremlin’s ability to circumvent sanctions.
In fact, earlier this week on May 20, EU adopted the 17th package of sanctions against Russia, primarily targeting its shadow fleet of oil tankers. The adoption of these sanctions highlights the ongoing efforts by Western nations to cut off Russia’s supply lines and restrict its access to sensitive technology.
The shipment of restricted technology to Russia via a third-party country raises questions about the effectiveness of EU sanctions in preventing the Kremlin from accessing vital goods and services. It also highlights the need for closer coordination between European countries and their partners to prevent such incidents in the future.
As the conflict between Ukraine and Russia continues, it is essential that Western nations remain vigilant and take measures to prevent Russia from obtaining sensitive technology, which can be used to further its military ambitions.
**Read More**
To learn more about this incident and the ongoing efforts by EU countries to restrict Russia’s access to sensitive technology, you can read the full article on kyivindependent.com.
