ICYMI **An Israeli national pleaded guilty in a US court to illegally shipping American aircraft parts and avionics to Russia, violating export controls implemented after Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.**
According to the US Department of Justice, Gal Haimovich, 49, misled American suppliers regarding the destination of goods, some with missile technology applications, which were sent to intermediaries en route to Russian customers.
Between March 2022 and May 2023, Haimovich facilitated over 160 shipments to companies in the Maldives and UAE, ultimately delivering them to Russia. He concealed his work for Siberia Airlines, billing the airline for $2 million.
As part of his plea, Haimovich has agreed to forfeit the funds and aircraft parts involved.
This case is part of the US Justice Department’s “KleptoCapture” task force, established to enforce sanctions and export controls on Russia. Launched by US Attorney General Merrick Garland in March 2022, the task force aims to target violations amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
In related developments, the US has accused Iran of supplying ballistic missiles to Russia for use in Ukraine, a claim Iran denies, and Russia has not confirmed.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced forthcoming sanctions on Iran, including its airline, Iran Air, and highlighted Russia’s technology-sharing efforts with Iran, including nuclear cooperation.