US Treasury allows some payments to Russian entities for internet services

The US Treasury Department has issued a new license that allows certain transactions with Russian entities related to internet-based communications. This means US companies can continue to provide services like instant messaging, social media, and email to people in Russia, even if those services involve sanctioned entities.

Sanctions usually block all transactions with designated entities, making it difficult to provide basic services. This license carves out an exception for internet communications, which are often essential for people to access information and communicate. It signals a strategic choice to maintain some digital connections with Russia, rather than a complete blackout.