Cease Business with Russia: A Demand for Accountability Over UK’s Controversial Exports

Recent investigations have illuminated the significant volume of equipment and components exported from the United Kingdom to Russia, presenting a grave concern that demands the immediate attention of the global business community. Research findings published by The Times reveal that, within a span of ten months in 2023, the Russian military has managed to indirectly procure British-made components, such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and semiconductors, totaling over $100 million in value. These critical military hardware components were reportedly obtained through intermediaries located in third countries.
The investigation pinpointed 28 specific British-origin components within Russian military assets, in addition to over 2,000 components of American origin. The bulk of exports from the UK were identified as semiconductors and computer components, alongside CNC machine tools with an approximate value of $1.5 million. In 2023, Russia’s import of British-made FTDI semiconductor components surged to around $1.5 million, a significant increase from the $500,000 recorded in 2022.
These transactions, often facilitated by firms in China, Hong Kong, and Turkey, suggest that several British suppliers directly exported millions of dollars worth of components to Russia. This scenario highlights a broader issue of compliance, despite the UK Government’s Department of Business and Trade’s assurances to assist businesses in adhering to sanctions. The Office of Trade Sanctions Implementation (OTSI) bears the responsibility for the civil enforcement of trade sanctions, including the investigation of potential violations, the imposition of fines, and the referral of cases for criminal prosecution. Nonetheless, the efficacy of these structures in fulfilling their roles is currently being questioned.
In response to these revelations, the international business community needs to reassess and terminate any business dealings with Russia. The ongoing supply of components, particularly those with potential military applications, to a country engaged in aggressive and unjust actions against Ukraine, is profoundly concerning. Such activities not only violate international sanctions but also undermine global efforts toward achieving peace and stability.
Therefore, we urge all international companies to take a principled stance against the perpetuation of conflict and to disengage from any business activities that directly or indirectly support the Russian military apparatus. It is a moral imperative to stand in solidarity with Ukraine and to condemn any actions or policies that facilitate the supply of military-relevant components to aggressor states.