US sanctions on Russia extend to Turkish companies for alleged connections

The United States has announced new sanctions against Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, and it has been revealed that some companies and individuals in Turkey will also be affected.

The US departments of treasury and state in concert with Britain imposed a new sanctions list on Wednesday, which includes over 120 entries from 20 nations, and it has been noted that at least four companies from Turkey are listed.

A senior US government official, speaking to Reuters on condition of anonymity, said that these companies are predominantly Russian-owned or have connections with Russia. The official said, "This is a shot across the bow as export control practices evolve."

Reuters cited Eurasia Group analyst Clayton Allen who said sanctioning Turkish firms signaled U.S. partner nations were not immune from U.S. action.

"Crossing this threshold is an important development," he said, saying the commitment to enforcement even if it causes friction with partners signals a US "expectation that the current sanctions structure will endure for the long term."

There has been no official response from Turkey regarding the decision taken by the US

Although Turkey has chosen not to join the US and the EU in imposing sanctions, it has also not shown tolerance for violations of these sanctions. President Tayyip Erdogan has been careful to maintain good relations with both Moscow and Kiev governments during the Ukraine conflict.

In the face of pressure from the U.S. and EU to join the sanctions against Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, Turkey had halted the transit of Western goods to Moscow in March.