EU calls on Swedish authorities to act over tech firm’s alleged role in sanctions evasion

The European Union’s top sanctions envoy has urged Swedish authorities to investigate claims that a Swedish tech company enabled Russian elites to bypass EU flight restrictions, according to an investigation by public broadcaster SVT.

David O’Sullivan, the EU’s special envoy for sanctions, described the allegations against Avinode—a Swedish platform for booking private flights—as “very serious.” He told SVT that Swedish authorities should examine the case and, if necessary, pursue legal action.

“This is something the Swedish authorities should look into and potentially take forward, and if necessary, prosecute,” O’Sullivan said.

The SVT investigation found that Russian companies used Avinode’s platform to charter private flights to European luxury destinations, despite EU sanctions banning such travel. While the company has declined interviews, it stated in writing that it has taken steps to comply with sanctions and stressed that it only provides a booking platform, leaving passenger verification to operators and authorities.

Legal experts warn the practice may violate EU Regulation 833/2014, which prohibits flights controlled by Russian individuals or entities, regardless of the aircraft’s registration. Alexandre Prezanti, a sanctions lawyer, told SVT that the key factor is who controls the flight—not the plane’s flag or ownership.

“It doesn’t matter what nationality the aircraft has or what flag it flies under. What matters is who controls it,” Prezanti said. “If a Russian person decides where the plane flies, takes off, or lands, it is considered controlled by that person—whether an individual or a company.”

Sweden’s security service declined to comment on the specific findings but emphasized its collaboration with other agencies to enforce sanctions. “We know Russia does not hesitate to find ways to circumvent sanctions, which we take very seriously,” a spokesperson said.