Germany arrests five suspected of supplying Russian firms in sanctions breach

German authorities have arrested five individuals in Lübeck for allegedly violating sanctions against Russia by exporting goods to Russian defense companies. The arrests were made as part of an investigation into a network that reportedly smuggled goods valued at approximately €30 million to around 20 Russian defense firms. The suspects are accused of using front companies to facilitate their operations and have conducted approximately 16,000 deliveries as part of this illicit activity. The arrested individuals include nationals from Germany, Russia, and Ukraine. While five suspects have been apprehended, authorities have indicated that five additional individuals involved in the network remain at large. This operation highlights ongoing efforts by German law enforcement to enforce EU sanctions imposed on Russia in response to its actions in Ukraine. In related developments, the Kremlin has announced that discussions with Ukraine are set to continue in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday, indicating that diplomatic efforts are still ongoing despite the tensions arising from the sanctions and military actions. The situation remains dynamic as authorities continue to investigate the extent of the sanctions violations and the networks involved in supplying goods to Russian defense entities.