Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP, a Delaware limited liability partnership | This website contains attorney advertising.
March 27, 2014

U.S. Places Hold on Issuing Licenses for Russian Exports

By Joan Koenig and Mollie D. Sitkowski

The U.S. Department of State’s Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) and the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) both confirmed this week that they have suspended the issuance of licenses for controlled exports destined for Russia. The DDTC and BIS also announced that they would be continuing this practice until further notice. BIS, however, clarified that existing licenses will not be affected by its policy, only applications that were not granted by March 1, 2014.

The United Kingdom (UK) has also suspended licenses for exports of military and dual-use items destined for Russia. In contrast to BIS though, its suspension affects existing licenses and applications. In addition, the UK has suspended licenses for exports of items to third parties where the end-use of the item will be incorporation into equipment destined for Russia.

These suspensions of licenses by the DDTC, BIS, and the UK complement the growing sanctions list against various individuals involved in the annexation of Crimea. Both the European Union and the U.S. have warned Russia that they will not hesitate to impose additional sanctions if Russia further escalates the situation with Ukraine.

For more information on how your company may be affected by increasing restrictions on trade with Russia or on the sanctions or licenses regulations in general, please contact Joan Koenig, Mollie Sitkowski or any other member of Drinker Biddle’s Customs and International Trade team.

The material contained in this communication is informational, general in nature and does not constitute legal advice. The material contained in this communication should not be relied upon or used without consulting a lawyer to consider your specific circumstances. This communication was published on the date specified and may not include any changes in the topics, laws, rules or regulations covered. Receipt of this communication does not establish an attorney-client relationship. In some jurisdictions, this communication may be considered attorney advertising.