Russia Secures Explosive Chemicals from Fertilizer Companies Evading Sanctions

Russia has been obtaining key chemical ingredients for explosives from fertilizer companies that have largely avoided international sanctions, according to recent reports. These orders, which include tens of thousands of tons of nitric acid and a nitric-sulfuric acid mixture, are intended for JSC Spetskhimiya, one of Russia’s largest explosives manufacturers. This supply chain allows Russia to sustain its military capabilities despite the extensive economic restrictions imposed by Western nations.

Documents reviewed by Bloomberg indicate that subsidiaries of major fertilizer producers, EuroChem Group AG and UralChem JSC, were responsible for these orders. Both companies have largely escaped the strictest U.S. and European sanctions due to the critical role their products play in global food production.

The acids in question are essential components for producing TNT, gunpowder, and other propellants used in Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine. Despite concerns over their use in military applications, numerous factories identified in the documents are set to receive these chemicals throughout this year. Many of these facilities have already been sanctioned by Ukraine’s allies for their involvement in Russia’s military efforts.

EuroChem and UralChem continue to supply these essential chemicals, despite growing scrutiny over their potential role in fueling the conflict. EuroChem defended its operations in a statement to Bloomberg, saying, “EuroChem is an important part of global food security. Our products are intended for use in agriculture and civil industry. The company is not part of the defense sector of the Russian economy.”

UralChem did not respond to requests for comment, nor did Rostec, the state-controlled conglomerate that owns Spetskhimiya. The European Union sanctioned Spetskhimiya last June as part of efforts to limit Russia’s defense production.

Despite sanctions, Russia remains a crucial supplier of fertilizer to Europe, accounting for roughly a quarter of the continent’s total supply. Since the start of the war in February 2022, this trade has generated over €5 billion. While the European Union is attempting to impose tariffs on certain Russian fertilizers, officials face significant challenges in tightening restrictions without disrupting global food supplies.

The documents indicate that the acids delivered this year will be used to manufacture explosives. The planned deliveries will provide Rostec subsidiaries with enough nitric acid to produce at least 6,500 152mm artillery shells daily. Based on production capacity, Russia is capable of manufacturing between 3 and 4 million artillery shells per year.

Experts have noted that despite sanctions, Russia’s access to critical chemicals has not been completely severed. While nitric and sulfuric acids are essential for explosive production, they also have widespread applications in non-military industries, further complicating efforts to restrict their supply.

By fLEXI tEAM