Western loopholes: Russian nuclear upgrade defies sanctions
An investigation by the German weekly "Der Spiegel" has revealed that Western companies are involved in the modernization of Russian nuclear silos. The collected evidence suggests that Western sanctions imposed on Russia are failing, even in critical areas.
In cooperation with the Danish investigative portal Danwatch, journalists from "Der Spiegel" analyzed, among other things, contracts for the modernization of nuclear infrastructure signed in recent years by Russian government agencies.
Russians bypass sanctions
These agencies announce official tenders for modernization works, specifying their requirements in detail. Due to Western sanctions, they do not enter into direct contracts with Western companies but instead undertake activities related to "covering their tracks."
In practice, this involves creating a chain of intermediary companies. Access to secret documentation concerning Russian bases and the work carried out on their premises has revealed that many materials used in the construction of Russian nuclear silos, including cement, adhesives, and various types of insulation, were imported from Western suppliers, particularly the German company Knauf.
German journalists submitted an inquiry to Knauf regarding evidence of its materials being used in this manner. A company representative explained that it does not enter into agreements with the Russian Ministry of Defence or any affiliated entities. The Russian branches of the company reportedly sell goods produced in Russia "almost exclusively to independent building materials traders".
The findings of Danwatch and "Der Spiegel" concern, among other places, the base in Yasny, where two Russian missile regiments equipped with strategic Avangard missile systems—hypersonic weapons capable of carrying nuclear warheads—are stationed.
Russians failed to protect crucial data
Norwegian military expert Tom Røseth believes these documents, which the Russians were unable to secure, are indisputable evidence of their modernization efforts regarding nuclear infrastructure. In his view, the Kremlin will now be forced to rebuild certain facilities to minimize the risk associated with data leakage.
Nuclear forces have long been an essential aspect of Russia's foreign policy. It is one of the few countries with access to the so-called nuclear triad, which means the capability to launch missiles with nuclear warheads from land, sea, and air.
