The U.S. Department of Justice has announced criminal charges against Bence Horvath, a Hungarian national accused of running a procurement network that attempted to supply Russia with U.S. military-grade communications technology. Horvath was arrested at San Francisco International Airport last Friday while entering the United States.

Charges Stem from U.S. Export Control Violations

Horvath is accused of trying to circumvent U.S. export controls imposed on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine. These restrictions are aimed at preventing Russia from acquiring crucial military equipment. According to the DOJ, Horvath conspired with companies in Russia, Spain, Latvia, Serbia, and Hungary to secure U.S. military radios for Russia, including a Russian firm that contracts directly with the government. The radios were reportedly intended for use near the Russia-Ukraine border in the Kursk region.

US Arrests Hungarian Suspected Of Sending Radios To Russia : Failed Shipment of 200 Radios

In January 2023, Horvath allegedly sought to purchase 200 U.S. military-grade radios from an American distributor. He then attempted to transship the radios to Russia via Latvia and the United Arab Emirates. However, U.S. customs officials intercepted the shipment, thwarting the effort.

High Priority for U.S. Authorities

The DOJ highlighted the importance of targeting global procurement networks that support Russia's military efforts. "When the United States believes your conduct violates our export laws, we take action," said Matthew Axelrod, assistant secretary for export enforcement at the U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security.

Horvath's case underscores the U.S. government's commitment to enforcing export restrictions on Russia and disrupting illicit supply chains aiding its military.

US Arrests Hungarian Suspected Of Sending Radios To Russia : Legal Representation

The U.S. is represented by attorneys from the DOJ National Security Division and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia. Horvath is represented by Gabriela Bischof from the Office of the Federal Public Defender.