Belize-based Company Sanctioned for Alleged Russian Defence Ties

Amid escalating international pressure on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine, the United States and the United Kingdom have announced new sanctions aimed at disrupting Russia’s military supply chain. Among the sanctioned entities is Berezia Management, a Belize-based company accused of facilitating operations linked to Russia’s defence industry.

The U.S. Department of Treasury says that Berezia Management is reportedly connected to Perspective Technologies Agency (UPT), a Russian firm specialising in communication networks and submarine cables. According to U.S. authorities, Berezia Management plays a key role in supporting Russian infrastructure projects by operating within commercial networks designed to evade international restrictions.

The move is part of a broader effort by the U.S. and the U.K. to disrupt supply chains sustaining Russia’s war in Ukraine.

According to the U.S. Department of Treasury, Berezia Management Ltd is listed as a Specially Designated National (SDN) under Executive Order 14024, which targets entities linked to Russia’s defence, intelligence, and technological sectors. The company, established on February 25, 2016, operates out of Suite 302, Blake Building, Corner Hutson and Eyre Street, Belize City, Belize. The location appears several times in the Pandora Papers.

Berezia Management is one of several global firms sanctioned as part of efforts to cut off Russia’s access to dual-use products and military components. Companies in Turkey, China, Belize, Thailand, India, Hungary, Switzerland, and Cyprus have also been flagged for their role in supplying microelectronics, radio equipment, and industrial machinery that support Russian military operations.

Sanctions on other firms include suppliers of microelectronics, radio equipment, and industrial machinery, which, though often marketed for civilian use, have been repurposed for military applications on the battlefield in Ukraine.

The U.S. is also turning its attention to Latin American companies, warning of potential risks for businesses that may unwittingly engage with firms linked to Russia’s defence sector. Against the backdrop of growing geopolitical tensions, companies in the region are being urged to strengthen oversight of their trade partners and ensure transparency in their operations.