An alumina refinery in Ireland has been linked to Russia’s defense supply chain while still operating within existing EU regulations, according to a joint investigation by the US-based Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project and The Irish Times.
Alumina (aluminum oxide) is a key raw material in the production of aluminum used in aircraft, missiles, and military vehicles.
The investigation found that alumina exports between Ireland and Russia have risen since Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, with shipments traced from Aughinish Alumina to smelting facilities in Siberia.
Based in Limerick, Aughinish Alumina is Europe’s largest alumina refinery and is owned by Moscow-based mining giant Rusal, founded by oligarch Oleg Deripaska. Although Deripaska remains under Western sanctions, the refinery itself is not sanctioned, allowing operations to continue legally.
Russian Distribution Link
Analysts indicate that processed alumina from Siberia is marketed through Aluminium Sales Company (ASK), a trading firm in Moscow’s Tagansky District.
Leaked financial records suggest ASK supplies aluminum to defense contractors, including entities involved in missile and weapons production tied to the war in Ukraine. Between 2022 and 2024, a notable portion of ASK’s revenue reportedly came from defense-related deals.
Regulatory Gap Concerns
Although these activities do not breach EU sanctions—including the 2025 ban on Russian aluminum imports—investigators warn they highlight loopholes in enforcement. One expert noted that such legal trade flows “could undermine NATO objectives,” emphasizing that even compliant transactions may still support military supply chains.
Aughinish responded by stating it adheres strictly to EU regulations and maintains robust compliance practices.
