In a coordinated move aimed at tightening the screws on Russia’s wartime economy, the European Union and the United Kingdom have announced a new wave of sanctions specifically targeting the Kremlin’s so-called “shadow fleet” — a network of aging oil tankers accused of clandestinely transporting Russian crude in violation of international sanctions.
The fresh sanctions, unveiled this week, focus on a fleet of vessels that EU and UK officials say are being used to evade the price cap on Russian oil exports, a measure designed to restrict funding for Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine. These tankers, often registered under flags of convenience and operated by obscure shell companies, are believed to be transporting oil through covert routes and ship-to-ship transfers to mask their origin.
According to EU and British authorities, the new measures include asset freezes and restrictions on maritime services—including insurance and port access—for companies and individuals involved in the illicit oil trade. At least 20 vessels linked to Russia’s opaque shipping network have been named in the sanctions list, as Western governments seek to disrupt the financial lifelines sustaining Moscow’s war efforts.
British Foreign Secretary David Cameron stated that these sanctions send a “clear message” that the UK and its allies are committed to enforcing energy restrictions and holding violators accountable. “Russia’s attempts to circumvent our sanctions through deceptive shipping practices will not go unanswered,” he said.
The sanctions come amid growing evidence that Russia has successfully rerouted much of its oil exports to non-Western markets, including China and India, often through clandestine shipping arrangements. Analysts say this shadow fleet—comprising largely older, less regulated vessels—poses not only economic risks but also environmental hazards due to lax safety standards.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen echoed the urgency of the move, emphasizing that economic pressure on Russia must remain high. “We are closing loopholes and targeting enablers. No one involved in supporting this illegal trade should feel immune,” she said.
Industry experts suggest that the sanctions could lead to increased scrutiny and disruption of global oil logistics, particularly in key transit zones such as the Suez Canal, the Strait of Gibraltar, and waters near Turkey and Greece where many of the shadow fleet’s operations are believed to take place.
The move also aligns with broader efforts by the G7 and other allies to reduce global reliance on Russian energy while depriving Moscow of vital oil revenues. While the effectiveness of such measures depends on enforcement and international cooperation, observers say the sanctions represent a strong political signal against ongoing sanctions evasion.
The Kremlin has dismissed the move as economic warfare, accusing the West of destabilizing global markets. However, with rising pressure from both financial regulators and environmental watchdogs, the era of unregulated oil smuggling under the guise of “dark fleet” operations may be drawing to a close.
Source : Swifteradio.com
