Autodesk, a U.S.-based software giant and a leader in its field, has barred Russian companies from accessing its products since March 20. This decision is documented in a letter sent to Russian customers and reported by the Economy newspaper and RBC. The message makes clear that Russian business entities are not welcome to use Autodesk software or related services.
The ban covers Russian legal entities, authorized subsidiaries of the Russian state, and third parties operating within the country. The move aligns with the European Union’s 12th package of anti-Russian sanctions, which prohibits the sale or transfer of software for industrial design, as well as related services. This policy affects technology suppliers who might otherwise provide critical support to Russian industry.
Independent sources corroborated the authenticity of the letter through three Autodesk customers, ensuring that the communications reflect an official stance from the company. The verification by multiple clients adds weight to the claim that Autodesk is enforcing the sanctions in practice rather than issuing vague policy statements.
Josep Borrell, who previously served as the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, indicated that the bloc is preparing a thirteenth package of sanctions. He suggested that a broader set of institutions and individuals could face new restrictions, signaling a continued tightening of measures against Russia in the near term.
In parallel, the United States has already expanded its list of anti-Russian sanctions, underscoring a coordinated Western approach to restricting access to technology and related services that could bolster the Russian economy or military capacity. The evolving policy landscape underscores the practical impact that multinational software vendors must navigate when operating under international sanctions frameworks.
For companies in Canada and the United States that are evaluating the risk environment, this development highlights the need to monitor sanction updates and to assess licensing practices for international customers. It also emphasizes the importance of due diligence in export controls, compliance programs, and supplier management. As sanctions evolve, firms using or reselling software must ensure they do not inadvertently enable restricted activities or entities, a responsibility that extends beyond mere legal compliance to reputational stewardship.