Perspectives

When Russia launched its war against Ukraine in 2014, thousands of volunteers stepped forward to defend the country. Many would go on to form the backbone of some of the most capable brigades in the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

Sanctions were meant to choke Russia’s war machine—but Western microchips are still guiding its bombs. Despite sweeping restrictions, Russia keeps finding ways to import foreign technology critical to producing one of its most lethal weapons: glide bombs (KABs).

The US commitment to swiftly ending the Russia-Ukraine war has sparked concerns that Western companies may attempt  to rapidly re-enter the Russian market if a peace deal is reached. However, the risks of operating in Russia have skyrocketed, making the case for returning both practically reckless and morally questionable. For companies considering re-entering, Russia represents a game of Russian roulette.