On Thursday, Dutch law firm Houthoff, which has regularly represented Russian interests and the Kremlin, announced it would be terminating its relationships with Russian clients amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
It has been a week since Russia launched its unprovoked attack on Ukraine, with over 1 million civilians already fleeing the war-torn country, according to the United Nations.
The firm’s decision follows uncertainty over whether providing services to Russian entities may violate European sanctions rules. It also has concerns over what money will be available to pay lawyers.
In a statement, Houthoff said: “Due to the acts of war by the Russian Federation in Ukraine, Houthoff has decided to terminate its relationship with the Russian Federation as well as with associated persons and companies.
“In addition, Houthoff will not accept any new instructions from such parties. Dutch lawyers are subject to strict professional rules of conduct when dealing with a decision of this nature, also when circumstances are as severe as currently the case in Ukraine.
“Houthoff will honour the applicable duty of care in the execution of this decision. It will do so in consultation with the Dean of the Amsterdam Bar.”
