The United States has vetoed a Canadian proposal to form a task force aimed at dismantling Russia's elusive "shadow fleet" of oil tankers. These ageing vessels play a crucial role in bypassing western economic sanctions imposed on Moscow since its full-scale military invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The Canadian measure was proposed ahead of the upcoming G7 foreign ministers' meeting in Quebec, where Canada currently holds the presidency.
The "shadow fleet" consists of oil tankers with concealed identities, crucial for Russia to sustain its revenue streams despite the sanctions. European countries, concerned about these covert operations, are considering plans to seize tankers exporting Moscow's oil in the Baltic Sea. Meanwhile, the United States has shifted its focus, urging stronger language regarding China in ongoing negotiations for a joint G7 statement on maritime issues, while simultaneously diluting references to Russia.
In a draft G7 statement obtained by Bloomberg News, it was revealed that the United States pushed to remove the word "sanctions" and alter references to Russia's "ability to maintain its war" in Ukraine, opting instead for language that highlights Russia's capacity to "earn revenue." This shift in wording illustrates Washington's strategic diplomatic approach amidst broader geopolitical considerations.
US diplomats have informed their G7 counterparts that this move is driven by Washington's own concerns. The decision to reject the task force proposal reflects the US's "re-evaluation of its position in multilateral organisations, rendering it unable to join any new initiatives."
As discussions continue, the US remains steadfast in its stance against forming a task force dedicated to dismantling the "shadow fleet," prioritizing broader strategic considerations over immediate action against Russia's covert operations. This decision raises questions about the effectiveness of current strategies in curbing Russia's ability to circumvent sanctions.