EU Sanctions Nearly 600 Russian Shadow Fleet Ships Amid Ongoing Efforts to Pressure Moscow
The European Union has imposed sanctions on 41 additional vessels in Russia’s shadow fleet, bringing the total number of sanctioned ships to nearly 600. The EU Council reported that these vessels are now banned from entering EU ports and are prohibited from receiving a broad range of maritime transport services.
According to the Council, the sanctions target non-EU tankers that play a role in circumventing the oil price cap, supporting Russia’s energy sector, transporting military equipment, or carrying stolen Ukrainian grain and cultural goods. The measure is part of the EU’s continued efforts to pressure Russia over its war of aggression against Ukraine.
EU Sanctions Target Russian Oil Traders for Facilitating Sanction Evasion
Earlier this week, the EU also sanctioned Russian oil traders Murtaza Lakhani and Etibar Eyyub for facilitating the circumvention of Western sanctions on crude exports. These sanctions contribute to funding Russia’s military operations in Ukraine. The move is seen as a significant step in the EU’s efforts to disrupt Russia’s ability to fund its war effort.
EU Prepared to Impose Further Sanctions if Needed
The EU has said it is prepared to impose further sanctions on Russia and its shadow fleet if needed. The bloc has implemented 19 sanction packages against Russia to date, with no signs of easing pressure. Despite these measures, Moscow has adapted, continuing to sell millions of barrels of oil to India and China, albeit at discounted prices compared with global rates.
Much of this oil is transported using vessels operating outside the Western maritime industry, often referred to as Russia’s “shadow fleet.” The EU has said it will continue to target shadow fleet enablers and use international maritime law to tackle threats and protect undersea infrastructure.
Original Article: Nearly 600 Russian Shadow Fleet Ships Now Sanctioned As EU Targets 41 More — Marineinsight