The U.S. government is urging American companies to halt the shipment of goods to more than 600 foreign parties over concerns that these items could end up being used by Russia in its invasion of Ukraine. Despite the sanctions imposed by the U.S. and other countries on Russia following its invasion in 2022, American components continue to be identified in Russian weapons left on the battlefield in Ukraine, prompting a call for companies to voluntarily cease shipping to these parties due to the high risk of transshipment to Russia.
In an effort to disrupt Russia’s war efforts in Ukraine, the Commerce Department has issued warnings to at least 20 companies containing a list of more than 600 foreign parties. Assistant Secretary Matthew Axelrod disclosed this information at the department’s annual export control conference in Washington, D.C., stating that letters had been sent to American companies asking them to voluntarily cease shipping to these parties.
To further prevent their products from being used by Russia, senior U.S. officials from the Commerce, State, and Treasury departments have been engaging with leaders of U.S. companies exploring additional actions they can take.
At this time, it is not clear what specific measures have been taken by the U.S government or if any action has been taken against those companies who continue to ship goods despite warning letters being sent out.