Latin American companies in the crosshairs of the United States for links with Russian defense firms
In the context of international sanctions against Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, the United States and the United Kingdom have toughened measures against companies and actors that supply goods and services to the Russian defense machinery. This approach seeks to weaken the logistical and technological capabilities that support the war effort on the Ukrainian front, even affecting Latin American companies that could be directly or indirectly related.
Sanctions aimed at strategic networks
The US Department of the Treasury, through the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), has identified several companies involved in the supply of critical components for the development and maintenance of Russian defense systems. Among the countries highlighted in the investigations are Türkiye, China, Belize, and recently, some Latin American countries. These nations have served as routes for the acquisition of essential materials, including dual-use products that can be applied in both civilian and military contexts.
One of the companies mentioned is Perspective Technologies Agency (UPT), specialized in communication networks and submarine cables. UPT has led key Russian state-funded projects, including the installation of submarine cables in the North Sea.
Latin America in the crosshairs of sanctions
The impact of these measures is not limited to Russian companies. According to official reports, small and medium-sized businesses in Latin America could be inadvertently collaborating with sanctioned entities. This represents a significant risk, as such trade relationships could lead to financial blockages, loss of access to international markets and other economic sanctions.
A relevant case is that of Berezia Management, a company registered in Belize and linked to UPT, which has been identified as a key node in the provision of technological components to Russia. These operations expose how commercial networks are structured that seek to evade international restrictions, using jurisdictions with less regulatory control.
Repercussions for Latin American companies
OFAC has warned that any entity that maintains business relationships with sanctioned companies will face severe financial and legal consequences. This includes stricter oversight of international operations, especially in emerging markets such as Latin America.
The growing concern of US authorities focuses on technological inputs from countries such as Türkiye and China, used in defense systems. Microelectronics, radio equipment and industrial machinery are some of the goods identified as essential to Russian military infrastructure, often acquired through intermediaries in regions with lax controls.
OFAC, charged with administering and enforcing economic sanctions programs, has a long history dating back to conflicts such as World War II and the Korean War. Since its formal creation in 1950, it has played a central role in US foreign and security policy, using sanctions to block assets, restrict trade and protect strategic interests.
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