Intel, AMD Sued in US Over Chips Allegedly Used in Russian Drones and Missiles

Tech Giants Face Accusations of Supplying Russian War Machine

In a shocking legal development, a series of lawsuits filed in the United States accuse Intel, AMD, and Texas Instruments of passively facilitating the flow of their crucial chip technology into Russia's arsenal. These allegations, brought forth by dozens of Ukrainian civilians, paint a grim picture of global corporations inadvertently fueling conflict.

"Merchants of Death": The Core of the Allegations

The central accusation, as reported by Bloomberg, is that these semiconductor titans, along with other unnamed companies, have engaged in "willful ignorance" regarding the resale of their advanced processors to Russia. These chips, it is claimed, are then integrated into the very drones and missiles that have been devastating Ukrainian cities and claiming innocent lives. Attorney Mikal Watts, representing the plaintiffs, didn't mince words, branding these American companies as "merchants of death" who are making a mockery of U.S. sanctions laws.

A Trail of Destruction and Suspected Complicity

The lawsuits detail five specific Russian attacks occurring between 2023 and 2025, attacks that have tragically resulted in the deaths of numerous individuals. Evidence presented points to the presence of components linked to Intel and AMD in 'Shahed' drones following one such assault. Further allegations connect these companies' products to sophisticated Kh-101 cruise missiles and Iskander ballistic missiles manufactured in Russia. The plaintiffs contend that these tech giants are guilty of "internal corporate negligence," stemming from purported failures in their export control and anti-diversion systems.

"These defendants knew about this diversion, but did nothing to stop it. This is willful disregard," stated Dustin Dow of Baker & Hostetler.

"As Worthy as Recovering Funds for Madoff Investors"

The gravity of the accusations is underscored by the firm's perspective. Robert Julian, another lawyer involved, drew a powerful parallel, asserting that his firm views this case as "as worthy and significant as recovering funds for Madoff investors." This comparison highlights the immense financial and moral stakes involved, suggesting a deliberate or grossly negligent oversight with catastrophic human consequences.

Corporate Responses and Export Control Scrutiny

Intel has responded by stating that it ceased all business operations in Russia and immediately suspended all shipments to Russian and Belarusian customers at the outset of the conflict. The company emphasizes its commitment to strict adherence to all export laws, sanctions, and regulations in the U.S. and globally, demanding similar accountability from its partners. Texas Instruments, through testimony before the U.S. Congress last year, also voiced strong opposition to its chips being used in Russian military hardware, labeling any such usage as illegal and unauthorized.

The Complex Web of Chip Diversion

The situation brings into sharp focus the intricate and often opaque global supply chains for advanced semiconductors. While legitimate sales are strictly regulated, the possibility of chips being rerouted through third countries or acquired through illicit channels remains a persistent challenge. The lawsuits suggest that the sheer volume and sophistication of the technology involved, coupled with alleged lax oversight, have allowed these critical components to fall into the wrong hands, enabling the continued prosecution of the war in Ukraine.