**US Targets Sanctions Evasion Scheme**
The US Treasury Department has taken action against those involved in a sanctions evasion scheme that helped Russia and China make cross-border payments for sensitive goods. This was announced on January 15.
**New Sanctions Imposed**
Over 150 entities and individuals have been targeted, including companies in Russia’s defense industry and those supporting it. The US Treasury also expanded measures against almost 100 entities already under sanctions for their cooperation with Russia’s military-industrial complex.
**Sanctions Evasion Scheme Exposed**
The scheme involved regional clearing platforms set up by Moscow and Beijing to make non-cash mutual payments for sanctioned goods. Russian financial institutions, such as Sberbank of Russia and Alfa-Bank, were also involved in the scheme.
**Russia’s Defenses Impacted**
The sanctions have made it harder for Russia to access goods needed to build weapons for its war in Ukraine. US Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Wally Adeyemo said: “Today’s actions frustrate the Kremlin‘s ability to circumvent our sanctions and get access to the goods they need to build weapons for their war of choice in Ukraine.”
Read More @ kyivindependent.com