Russia circumvented sanctions to import $30 million worth of aircraft tires from Western manufacturers in 2023, as reported by The Guardian. Despite restrictions from the EU, U.K., U.S., and Japan, Russian planes, including those used by Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, were equipped with tires from companies like Michelin. The National Agency on Corruption Prevention in Ukraine uncovered these actions, revealing that Russia utilized intermediaries from China, Turkey, and other countries to acquire the necessary components.
Additionally, an investigation by InformNapalm exposed Russia’s use of French equipment from Thales and Sagem to maintain its Su-30SM fighter aircraft. The modernized jets have been instrumental in the conflict with Ukraine, and efforts to curb Russia’s access to Western technology have been unsuccessful so far. The report highlighted Russia’s adaptability to sanctions, utilizing smuggling and obscure companies to acquire prohibited goods. This revelation underscores the ongoing struggle between Ukraine and Russia, as well as the challenges of enforcing international sanctions.
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