A German tech company, Kontron, has been accused of violating EU sanctions by exporting sensitive telecommunications equipment to Russia through its Slovenian subsidiary. According to a Politico report on May 23, Kontron doo, the company’s Slovenian entity, shipped over €3.5 million ($3.9 million) worth of equipment to its Russian subsidiary, Iskra Technologies, between July and November 2023. The shipments, which included 11 deliveries, featured the SI3000 telecommunications platform, a dual-use product capable of monitoring and intercepting communications.
Kontron claimed that these 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 can be made for specific cases such as cybersecurity, medical use, or emergencies, but only with authorization from the relevant national government.
The alleged violation highlights the ongoing challenges in enforcing EU sanctions against Russia. Despite extensive Western sanctions aimed at cutting off supply lines, Russia continues to obtain sanctioned goods, such as microchips, via third-party countries. The EU has been working to halt the Kremlin’s ability to circumvent these sanctions, as evidenced by the adoption of the 17th package of sanctions against Russia on May 20, primarily targeting its shadow fleet of oil tankers.
This incident comes as Ukraine continues to target Russian territory with drone attacks, forcing at least 217 temporary airport closures across Russia since January 1. The Kyiv Independent has been reporting on the significant impact of these drone strikes on Moscow and the wider Russian territory.
The international community remains vigilant in monitoring and enforcing sanctions against Russia. Independent journalism plays a crucial role in uncovering such violations and keeping the public informed. The Kyiv Independent continues to provide reliable coverage of the ongoing conflict and its implications.
