Ukraine Urges Hong Kong To Block Russia’s Sanctions Evasion

Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, Dmytro Kuleba, visited Hong Kong, urging its leader, John Lee, to prevent Russia from using Hong Kong to bypass Western sanctions. The U.S. views Hong Kong and China as key channels for Russia’s military supplies. Despite official statements, Hong Kong is seen as a hotspot for sanctions evasion.

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba visited Hong Kong on Thursday, urging its leader John Lee to prevent Russia from using the city to circumvent Western sanctions imposed over its war in Ukraine.

Hong Kong and China are perceived by the U.S. as crucial routes for Russia to acquire military supplies, including semiconductors and drones. "Dmytro Kuleba called on the Hong Kong administration to take measures to stop Russia and Russian companies from using Hong Kong to dodge restrictive measures imposed for Russian aggression against Ukraine," the Ukrainian ministry stated.

In response, the Hong Kong government asserted via email to Reuters that it "implements and strictly enforces United Nations Security Council's sanctions." However, U.S. Commerce Department data shared by Reuters revealed that Hong Kong still plays a significant role in sanctions evasion, though the shipment of semiconductors and other restricted goods through China and Hong Kong dropped by 20% this year.

China, claiming neutrality in the Ukraine war, formed a "no limits" partnership with Russia just before the invasion in 2022, providing diplomatic support and buttressing Russia's wartime economy. Although Hong Kong emphasizes its commitment to U.N. sanctions, it does not enforce unilateral sanctions from other nations, aligning with China's Foreign Ministry directives.

Kuleba's Hong Kong visit followed three hours of discussions with Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Guangzhou, focusing on ending the Russian conflict in Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies.)