Western officials meet in UAE to tighten sanctions on Russia

UAE, which has friendly relations with Russia has not strictly enforced global sanctions imposed on Moscow

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – Western officials from the U.S., the U.K., and the European Union are meeting in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to raise concerns about the supply of goods, particularly computer French fries, to Russia.

There are fears that such exports could aid Russia in its conflict with Ukraine.

The Wall Street Journal had previously reported that there is a global effort to prevent the supply of dual-use products to Russia.

Dual-use goods have both civilian and military applications.

The UAE, which has friendly relations with Russia under the OPEC + oil alliance, has not strictly enforced global sanctions imposed on Moscow.

Recently, the U.S. has imposed restrictions on certain shipments related to Artificial Intelligence from Nvidia and AMD, headed to the Middle East.

However, the U.S. Department of Commerce clarified that the sale of chips to the Middle East is not completely blocked.

Regarding compliance with international sanctions, a UAE official stated that the country strictly adheres to UN sanctions and maintains strict procedures for dealing with sanctioned companies.

The UAE also actively monitors exports of dual-use products.

UAE officials also stated that the Gulf state ensures that its banks, under proper supervision, comply with sanctions imposed on Russia.