Dutch Court Sentences Russian Engineer to Three Years for Sharing Sensitive Microchip Technology with Russian Intelligence
July 11, 2025 — A court in the Netherlands has sentenced a Russian national to three years in prison for violating European Union sanctions by transferring sensitive semiconductor technology to Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB). The ruling highlights ongoing international efforts to enforce restrictions aimed at curbing Russia’s access to advanced technologies amidst geopolitical tensions.
The convicted individual, 43-year-old German Aksenov, had worked within the Dutch semiconductor industry between 2015 and 2024, including positions at prominent companies ASML and NXP Semiconductors. ASML is a leading manufacturer of microchip production equipment, while NXP Semiconductors supplies critical semiconductor components. Both companies are significant players in the global technology supply chain.
According to the prosecution, Aksenov illegally downloaded files containing detailed technical specifications related to microchip manufacturing from internal servers belonging to ASML and NXP Semiconductors. He then transferred these files onto a USB drive and an external hard disk, with the intention of delivering them to an agent of Russia’s Federal Security Service based in Moscow.
The court emphasized that the information shared “can contribute to strengthening [Russia’s] military and strategic capabilities,” noting the potential impact on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and its broader implications for international security and stability.
European Union sanctions prohibit the provision of technical assistance and transfer of technologies to Russia that could potentially be used in weapons manufacturing. These measures were initially imposed in 2014 following Russia’s annexation of Crimea and were significantly expanded in 2022 after the full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Prosecutors had sought a four-year prison sentence for Aksenov. However, his sentence was reduced to three years, reportedly due to insufficient evidence that he received financial compensation for his actions. During the trial, Aksenov denied any wrongdoing, claiming that he retained the files for professional purposes.
This case underscores the EU’s commitment to enforcing sanctions designed to prevent the unauthorized transfer of advanced technologies that could enhance Russia’s military capabilities. Authorities remain vigilant in identifying and prosecuting violations that threaten regional and global security frameworks.
The ruling also raises broader questions about the role of individuals working within sensitive sectors and the potential vulnerabilities in safeguarding critical technological information.
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