The Maldives, an archipelago known worldwide for its natural beauty and luxury, has become a secret route for Russia to access Western products affected by sanctions imposed after the invasion of Ukraine. The information was revealed by an investigation by The Wall Street Journal.
According to the publication, hundreds of millions of dollars in restricted goods pass through Malé airport destined for Moscow. Among the products are aircraft parts, electronic components, and dual-use items, which can be applied in both civilian and military contexts.
The mechanism identified by The Wall Street Journal takes advantage of the daily flights operated by Russian airline Aeroflot to run this circuit. Goods coming from the United States, Europe, and China first arrive in the Maldives before being routed to Russia.
