US Shares Ways Russia is Evading Sanctions with European Banks

US authorities have reportedly shared intelligence with European banks regarding ways that Russia is evading sanctions. The move comes as Western governments seek to step up pressure on Moscow in response to its recent actions in Ukraine and Belarus.

According to sources familiar with the matter, the US has provided detailed information to European financial institutions about techniques that Russian entities are using to circumvent sanctions, including the use of shell companies, front companies, and cryptocurrency.

The sharing of this intelligence is seen as part of a broader effort to coordinate Western sanctions policy towards Russia, with the US seeking to persuade its European allies to take a tougher stance on Moscow. However, some European countries have been reluctant to impose sanctions on Russia, citing concerns around the impact on their own economies and energy security.

The move also comes amidst growing concerns around the role of banks and financial institutions in facilitating illicit activities, including money laundering, terrorism financing, and sanctions evasion. Regulators and law enforcement agencies around the world have been stepping up efforts to combat financial crime and enforce sanctions, with increasing use of technology and data analytics to detect and disrupt illicit activity.

As geopolitical tensions continue to mount, the role of banks and financial institutions in global affairs is likely to come under increasing scrutiny, with calls for greater accountability, transparency, and responsible conduct.