Chip secrets to Russia: ex-ASML employee gets prison

2025-07-11 asml

Rotterdam, Friday, 11 July 2025.
A former ASML employee, German Aksenov, will spend three years in prison for sharing sensitive chip technology with a contact in Russia. The Dutch court found him guilty of violating EU sanctions. The leaked information could boost Russia’s military capabilities. The court stated that giving advice and sharing technology with Russia is extremely serious and can contribute to strengthening the country’s military and strategic capabilities, with consequences for Ukraine and indirectly for international security and stability.

Breach of trust and sanctions

Aksenov, a former employee of both ASML and NXP, was found guilty of computer intrusion and violating EU sanctions by providing technical assistance to Russia [1][3]. The Rotterdam District Court stated that Aksenov shared files containing advice on semiconductor manufacturing equipment and detailed steps for setting up processes [3]. These actions, according to the court, could significantly strengthen Russia’s military capabilities, especially in the context of the conflict in Ukraine [2][4]. The court emphasized the seriousness of sharing technology with Russia, highlighting potential consequences for international security [2][4].

Details of the espionage

Between May 2023 and August 2024, Aksenov shared files with an unnamed source in Russia through various channels, including Signal, Telegram, and Google Drive [3]. The information included details on setting up a microchip production line [2]. Although prosecutors sought a four-year sentence, the court reduced it to three years due to a lack of evidence proving Aksenov received direct payment for the information [1][4]. Aksenov admitted to providing advice to Russians but claimed the information was for personal use [2][7].

ASML’s market position and investor confidence

ASML, a leading global manufacturer of chip-making machines, declined to comment on the legal proceedings [1][3]. This incident underscores the persistent threat of technology theft and the critical importance of safeguarding intellectual property within the semiconductor industry [1][5]. Such breaches could potentially erode investor confidence, given ASML’s pivotal role in the global technology supply chain [1][2]. The company has faced export restrictions, reflecting concerns about access to its technology [2][5].

Broader implications and historical context

This case is not an isolated incident, as the Dutch high-tech sector has been a target for industrial espionage in the past [2][5]. In 2020, Dutch intelligence agencies exposed Russian spies targeting the Netherlands’ science and technology sectors, seeking information on artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and nanotechnology [2]. These technologies have both civil and military applications [2]. The prosecution viewed the case against Aksenov as a means to raise awareness about espionage risks [6]. Aksenov has 14 days to appeal the court’s decision [1][5].

Bronnen

ASML Technology Theft