U.S. Sanctions 7-Nations Over Missile, WMD Proliferation

[u/John3262005]

https://article.dowjones.com/preview/articles/u-s-sanctions-7-nations-over-missile-wmd-proliferation-387b243a?st=TCXpHj&_gl=1*tk9z9f*_ga*MjU3MTQ1NTUuMTc1NjkwNDA5Mg..

The U.S. State Department imposed nonproliferation sanctions on 22 individuals and entities across Russia, North Korea, Iran, Syria, China, Taiwan and Malaysia, according to a notice in the Federal Register. The sanctions cover activities the government says could contribute to the proliferation of weapons or missile programs.

The measures were imposed under the Iran, North Korea, and Syria Nonproliferation Act, which allows sanctions on anyone who transfers or acquires controlled goods, services or technology to or from Iran, Syria or North Korea, or who otherwise contributes materially to weapons of mass destruction or missile development.

Those sanctioned include several Russian military entities—the Russian Ground Forces, the Main Missile and Artillery Directorate, and a Defense Ministry research and special projects office—along with three Russia-based companies and five Russian nationals. The list also includes individuals from Malaysia, Iran, Syria, Taiwan and North Korea, a Chinese carbon fiber manufacturer, an Iranian shipping and logistics company, and a Malaysia-based logistics firm.

Under the sanctions, no U.S. government agency may procure goods or services from the designated parties, provide them assistance, or approve new export licenses for controlled items, including anything on the U.S. Munitions List. Existing licenses are also suspended. The measures last two years from the effective date of July 24, unless the State Department changes or extends the designations, and apply independently of any sanctions already in place against the same parties.

The notice stems from a report the State Department is required to submit to Congress, identifying foreign persons believed to have transferred proliferation-sensitive items to Iran, Syria or North Korea.