In 2017, Vladimir Putin claimed the nation that mastered artificial intelligence “will be the ruler of the world”. He wanted Russia to be an AI superpower by 2030. After invading Ukraine, he may have to wait rather longer to achieve such supremacy – if he ever does. Sanctions mean Moscow cannot easily access the high-end chips that AI requires. Homegrown substitutes will not cut it. Russia’s leading chip-maker is only capable of mass producing semiconductors last used in computers a decade ago.
After being sanctioned, Russia finds itself exposed to geopolitical systems controlled by others. Western nations are tearing up treaties and ending foreign investment. Multinational companies are leaving, often because of reputational concerns rather than any ban. On Thursday, the UK and US announced further sanctions on Russian lawmakers and state-owned companies.
