US sanctions Indian firms, people for ‘aiding’ Russia in war

NT Bureau

Agencies

Washington In what is unlikely to be music to New Delhi’s ears, the United States has put 19 private firms from India and two Indian nationals on a list of “nearly 400 entities and individuals” from about a dozen countries that will face sanctions for their alleged role in aiding Russia’s war efforts in Ukraine. The list was released by the US Treasury and State departments. While the US Department of State sanctioned more than 120 individuals and entities, the Department of the Treasury added over 270 others to the list this week. “The United States is imposing sanctions on nearly 400 entities and individuals for enabling Russia’s illegal war against Ukraine.

This action targets multiple sectors essential to Russia’s war effort,” said a press statement from US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. The US administration’s decision is aimed to curtail sale of various items and “other important dual-use goods” including critical components that the Russian weapons system relies on for the war against Ukraine, which it started in February 2022. New Delhi’s response is awaited at a time when ties between India and the US have been strained following an assassination plot against Sikh separatist leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on US soil, with Washington charging former Indian intelligence officer Vikash Yadav with directing the foiled attack.

Sanctioned entities; Indian nationals Vivek Kumar Mishra and Sudhir Kumar have been sanctioned, along with their companies. Delhi-based aircraft spare parts company Ascend Aviation India is on the list for shipping CHPL items to Russia, including US-origin aircraft parts. US has alleged several Indian companies have been shipping dual-use items to Russia, including Abhar Technologies and Services Private Limited which sent high-priority dual-use technology including electronic integrated circuits to Russian end-users.

Emsystech has been sanctioned for allegedly sending over 800 shipments including electronic integrated circuits and tantalum capacitors to Russia-based end-users, while Galaxy Bearings Ltd and Orbit Fintrade LLP exported high-priority dual-use equipment to Russia, including roller bearings and roller assemblies.