Vadim Konoshchenok, a Russian citizen with alleged ties to Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) is accused of smuggling US tech and arms into Russia. He pleaded not guilty in a US court after being extradited from Estonia. The allegations include violating US sanctions, export controls, and laundering money.
Konoshchenok was caught by Estonian authorities while trying to cross into Russia with US-made semiconductors and ammunition. He’s suspected to be a part of a seven-person smuggling group working under Russian intelligence, obtaining US-restricted goods.
He could face up to 30 years in prison for these charges. The US Justice Department stated that he allegedly supplied American technologies and ammunition to Russia, aiding their invasion of Ukraine.
Konoshchenok’s extradition to the US coincides with US efforts to bring back American citizens detained in Russia. The US authorities are also aiming to strengthen enforcement of export controls and sanctions to obstruct Russia’s war in Ukraine.