UK targets Russian military with export ban on gaming controllers and tech

The UK government has implemented a ban on the export of gaming console controllers to Russia, citing their use in piloting drones deployed on the frontline in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

This move is part of a broader package of 150 new trade sanctions targeting Russian defence and energy sectors, Caliber.Az reports citing foreign media.

The export ban on gaming controllers is among several measures designed to curtail Russia's military capabilities. The sanctions, which entered into force immediately, also focus on restricting the flow of innovative software and technology, including tools for identifying and exploiting new oil and gas reserves.

“Today, we are flexing our powers to choke the Russian war machine, save Ukrainian lives and protect British businesses from cynical Russian exploitation," said UK Sanctions Minister Stephen Doughty.

The sanctions package marks a shift towards targeting Russia's access to cutting-edge technology rather than focusing solely on financial restrictions. The Office for Trade Sanctions Implementation (OTSI), established in October 2024 under the Department for Business and Trade, is tasked with enforcing these new measures.

The UK’s efforts to disrupt Russia's military and energy capabilities include cutting off technology vital for defense, such as video game controllers, which have been repurposed to control drones used in combat. The government has also moved to block the export of chemicals, electronics, machinery, and metals, which are deemed critical to Russia’s military and industrial development.

“Cutting off Russia’s energy revenues will drain Putin’s war chest — that's why we’re shutting down the sale of sophisticated software used to cash in on new oil and gas reserves, preventing UK expertise from being used to pour fresh fuel into Russia’s war machine," Doughty explained.

Furthermore, the sanctions will prohibit the sale of advanced electronic components, amplifiers, and circuits, which the UK government describes as essential to the development of Russian military technologies.

“We’re also banning outright video game controllers going to Russia, preventing them from being used to pilot drones on the frontline, meaning gaming consoles will no longer be repurposed to kill in Ukraine,” Doughty added.

This comprehensive package of trade sanctions reflects the UK’s ongoing commitment to isolating Russia economically and militarily in response to its actions in Ukraine, while also safeguarding British industry from exploitation by Russian interests.

By Vafa Guliyeva