Video game consoles have long been associated with entertainment, but now they are drawing attention for a very different reason.
The European Union is preparing a new set of sanctions against Russia, and gaming systems are on the list.
The move comes amid concerns that these devices may be repurposed to help control drones on the battlefield.
Kaja Kallas, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, stated that the bloc is considering restrictions on anything that could aid Russia’s war effort.
No Eu Country Produces Gaming Consoles
She specifically mentioned gaming consoles, explaining that they appear to be used to operate drones.
The three largest gaming console manufacturers — Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo — had already halted sales in Russia back in March 2022, according to Hotnews.
The new EU sanctions, however, would focus on European resellers, including those dealing in used gaming systems, preventing any further shipments to Russia.
While the companies involved have not commented on the decision, Yasha Haddaji, the head of Russia’s Association of Video Game Distributors and Importers, dismissed the move.
He argued that no EU country produces gaming consoles and that the systems Russia receives do not pass through the European market.
He questioned whether the EU fully understands the gaming industry or if this decision is simply symbolic.
Sanctions on technology have become an increasing priority as reports indicate Russia has been using non-traditional sources for military components.
Since restrictions were placed on the sale of military-grade electronics, intelligence reports suggest Russia has turned to everyday appliances — such as refrigerators — to extract semiconductors for weapons production.
Independent journalists have repeatedly uncovered evidence of how Russia circumvents restrictions to obtain key components for its defense sector.
The EU’s latest measures aim to tighten these loopholes, making it even more difficult for Moscow to access advanced electronics, including those found in consumer products like gaming consoles.
