This article explores real-time payment systems, focusing on the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT) network and Vostro accounts. These systems play a critical role in international finance by enabling cross-border transitions. However, recent geopolitical events, such as sanctions on Russia, have highlighted the limitations of SWIFT in certain regions, prompting a growing interest in alternative mechanisms like Vostro accounts. This study examines the structure, functionality, and comparative advantage of SWIFT and Vostro systems, exploring how sanctions, especially those imposed on Russia, have affected SWIFT's accessibility and global financial flows, highlighting the need for alternative mechanisms. The study concludes that Vostro accounts allow sanctioned countries to conduct international transactions in local currencies, bypassing SWIFT. This offers flexibility but faces limitations in reach and higher operational costs due to complex compliance requirements. The findings are relevant to regulators and financial institutions looking for effective cross-border transaction methods around the world.