Turkey, as a country not participating in Western sanctions against Russia, has faced secondary sanctions from the U.S. and EU in 2025 for its companies’ cooperation with Russian entities. These measures aim to prevent the circumvention of sanctions through Turkish firms.
Key Sanctions Measures
1. U.S. Sanctions
2. EU Sanctions
- Secondary Sanctions: In 2025, OFAC imposed sanctions on Turkish companies supplying goods and services to sanctioned Russian entities. While specific 2025 lists are limited, earlier examples include Denkar Ship Construction (for ship repairs for Russia’s Ministry of Defense) and CTL Limited (for electronics supplies to Russia) added in 2023. Source: OFAC Press Release, September 14, 2023Current Status: The U.S. continues to monitor Turkish firms involved in supply chains for Russia’s defense industry. The U.S. Treasury has warned Turkish companies of the risks of SDN List inclusion. Source: Reuters, citing U.S. Treasury, September 14, 2023
2. EU Sanctions
- Export Restrictions: The EU imposed sanctions on Turkish companies supplying dual-use goods to Russia. In 2025, firms involved in electronics and technology supplies for Russia’s defense sector were added to sanctions lists. Source: European Commission, 2025
- Example: Companies supplying components for drones used by Russia were targeted. Source: Official Journal of the EU, 2025
Reasons for Sanctions
- Sanctions Circumvention: Turkish companies often act as intermediaries in supplying sanctioned goods, such as electronics and industrial equipment, to Russia.
- Logistics Services: Involvement in supply chains for the "shadow fleet" or Russian military enterprises.
Consequences
- Financial Restrictions: Freezing of assets in U.S. and EU jurisdictions and bans on transactions with Western counterparts.
- Pressure on Turkey: The U.S. and EU are intensifying dialogue with the Turkish government to limit cooperation with Russia, potentially leading to further sanctions in 2025.
Conclusion
Sanctions against Turkish companies in 2025 are part of the West’s strategy to prevent the circumvention of Russia sanctions. The risk of SDN List inclusion limits Turkish firms’ international operations. To check company status, use OFAC Sanctions List Search and EU publications.
