Set to implement new measures against Russian oil tanker fleet These measures are aimed directly at the vessels that have been used to circumvent new sanctions on oil and gas exports. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is set to make the announcement at a summit of northern European leaders. This major event, the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) will be held in Oslo, Norway.
The new sanctions target as many as 100 additional vessels that comprise what has become known as a “shadow fleet.” These tankers have thus far carried over £18 billion worth of cargo since the start of 2024 alone. These sanctions are intended to raise the cost on Moscow and advance The #PeaceforUkraine global movement.
Just last December 2024, the UK alone sanctioned 133 of those “shadow” vessels at a JEF meeting. The further restrictions, announced today, will make it illegal for these dangerous tankers to dock in British ports. They risk being sunk in UK waters. This demonstrates at the very least the UK’s deep commitment to imposing punitive measures against those attempting to escape sanctions.
The development arrives as Moscow has greatly expanded its “shadow fleet” to evade global sanctions. Because the ownership and movement of these tankers are frequently opaque, enforcement of sanctions becomes more difficult due to the added layer of complexity. As the New York Times recently reported, the “shadow fleet” is “crepit and dangerous,” having a long track record of “reckless seafaring.”
“The operation of the shadow fleet is aimed at starving his war machine of oil revenues and protecting the subsea infrastructure,” – Sir Keir Starmer
According to the UK government, this program is an essential component of a larger effort to stop Russian President Vladimir Putin’s deception. Ever since the invasion of Ukraine began in early 2022, Putin has received international condemnation, isolation and sanctions. Downing Street has stated that these vessels are “bankrolling the Kremlin’s illegal war in Ukraine,” highlighting the critical role that oil revenues play in supporting Russia’s military actions.
These sanctions on Russian energy were some of the first implemented by most western countries after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in early 2022. Even as the fighting continues, countries around the world are redoubling their resolve to exert more economic pressure on Russia. Their goal is to undermine Russia’s capacity to finance and sustain its military activities.