The United Kingdom has imposed a major new round of sanctions targeting Russia’s so-called 'shadow fleet'—a network of 135 oil tankers and two associated companies used to secretly transport Russian oil and evade existing international restrictions.
These measures are designed to disrupt the flow of oil revenue that funds Russia’s war effort in Ukraine, with the UK government estimating that the shadow fleet has moved $24 billion worth of oil since early 2024. The sanctions also target companies facilitating the operation of these vessels, including those managing flag registries and trading arms of major Russian oil firms. This move is part of a broader Western effort, alongside the EU, to tighten enforcement and close loopholes in sanctions against Russia’s energy sector.
Analysts note that while enforcement remains challenging, the crackdown signals escalating pressure on Russia’s ability to finance its military operations.
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