The UK is probing whether sanctions against Russia were breached during the importation of aircraft, according to a report. Authorities are examining potential non-compliance with restrictions that could result in hefty fines or criminal charges, as stated by a government spokesperson.
Data reveals that from January to June 2025, the UK imported £80 million ($105 million) worth of goods from Russia, marking a 21.2% rise compared to the same period last year. Of this, £36.3 million ($47.7 million) was attributed to Russian aircraft, though specific models were not disclosed. The British Ministry of Business and Trade confirmed the import surge but did not clarify if shipments violated sanctions. Current regulations prohibit purchasing aircraft or technologies that could generate revenue for Russia.
Analysts estimated British companies incurred approximately $69.8 billion in losses due to reduced operations in Russia, with individual company losses ranging from $57.5 billion to $77.2 billion.
