Maldives, transit country for data components to Russia
The idyllic little holiday paradise of the Maldives is playing a major role in Russia’s war against Ukraine. Together with China, the Maldives are the largest transit countries for chippers to Russia. These are crucial for Russia in the war against Ukraine. They are used in missiles, among other things. The country’s practice means that a ban on the export of computer components to the country is being considered by the US.
Russian tourists
The Maldives has long been a favourite holiday destination for rich Russians. Although there has been a sharp decline in the number of Russian tourists since the war began, they still make up a large proportion of tourists to the country. Before the war started, the Maldives did not export US data components. Exports now total 400,000 components. New companies have been set up, preferably registered in other countries, which are responsible for the forwarding to Russia
The Maldives is also a holiday destination for many wealthy Europeans and Americans. Tourism is the Maldives’ most important source of income and the country is practically completely dependent on tourism. The country’s dependence on tourism also makes it vulnerable. A decline in tourism means big losses for the small country.
Stop the export of computer components to the Maldives
A country that allows itself to be used as a transit country for such important components must be stopped. The most obvious solution is to stop all Western exports of computer components to the Maldives.
Individuals can decide for themselves whether they want to visit a holiday paradise that sends important components to Russia. The Maldives’ onward shipments of products on the sanctions lists are costing Ukrainian lives. Civilians and soldiers are killed by missiles equipped with US-made data choppers. A further decline in tourism may cause the country to abandon the practice.
The idyllic holiday islands are perhaps a paradise for tourists. But the country is stained with more and more blood. My advice is not to go to the Maldives. Find an alternative, there are many holiday paradises around the world.
Sources:
Small island nation with big role shipping chips to Russia – Nikkei Asia
Maldives is second-largest microcircuit supplier to Russia after China (yahoo.com)
Maldives transit point for shipments circumventing sanctions against Russia: Report (aninews.in)