Sanctions fail as U.S. microchips empower Russia's military

Despite Western sanctions, Russia has been able to import an increasing number of Western microchips and semiconductor technologies through intermediary countries like China, according to trade data and analysis. These components, many of which are subject to export controls, are used in critical Russian military equipment, including drones, missiles, and communication systems. The convoluted trade routes and the dual-use nature of these technologies make it difficult to prevent their entry into Russia. China is the largest exporter of microchips to Russia, accounting for over 87% of total Russian semiconductor imports in Q4 2022. Calls have been made for stronger sanctions and increased monitoring of supply chains to prevent the flow of these technologies to Russia's military.