As tensions continue to rise between Russia and Ukraine, 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. In an effort to disrupt Russia’s war efforts, the Commerce Department has issued warnings to at least 20 companies, according to a U.S. official who spoke on Thursday at the department’s annual export control conference in Washington, D.C.
Despite 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. Assistant Secretary Matthew Axelrod revealed that letters had been sent to American companies containing a list of more than 600 foreign parties, and requested they voluntarily cease shipping to these parties due to the high risk of transshipment to Russia.
In addition, senior U.S officials from the Commerce, State, and Treasury departments have been engaging with leaders of U.S companies to explore further actions they can take to prevent their products from being used by Russia. While some companies may be hesitant at first to comply with these requests due to financial losses or legal implications, it is ultimately essential for them to prioritize national security and put an end