US Takes First Enforcement Actions Against Alleged Violators of Russia Export Controls

The U.S. took its first actions Thursday to enforce sweeping restrictions on the export of technology and industrial goods to Russia, a warning to Russian companies and any foreign countries who seek to help them circumvent the measures aimed at undermining Russia’s defense and technology industries.

Commerce Department officials said they were issuing orders to deny three Russian airlines—Aeroflot, Azur Air, and UTair—the ability to access U.S.-made parts or receive services from anyone anywhere in the world. They said they were taking the actions after the airlines violated export controls by flying U.S.-made aircraft or foreign-made aircraft containing U.S. parts. None of the airlines could be immediately reached for comment.

U.S. officials said the airlines were operating flights within Russia and to and from countries including China, India, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates, rendering them subject to the U.S. export controls and requiring them to obtain licenses, which they didn’t have, officials said.

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