The UK has sanctioned 30 ships from Russia’s shadow fleet, responsible for transporting billions of pounds in oil and oil products over the past year.
This is the largest sanctions package of its kind and brings the total number of UK-sanctioned Russian oil tankers to 73, more than any other nation. These actions aim to curb the Kremlin’s ability to fund its illegal war in Ukraine and disrupt its global activities. The shadow fleet, known for deceptive shipping practices and poor safety standards, also poses significant risks to international trade and the environment.
The sanctions align with a broader UK-led initiative, supported by 46 countries and the EU, to tackle the shadow fleet and restrict oil revenues crucial to Russia’s war efforts.
At the G7 Foreign Ministers meeting in Italy, Foreign Secretary David Lammy emphasized the need for continued global pressure on Russia, alongside increased military and financial support for Ukraine. He highlighted that UK sanctions are degrading Russia’s war machine, forcing reliance on states like North Korea and Iran for military resources.
While in Italy, the Foreign Secretary will also push for closer G7 cooperation on Middle East ceasefires, humanitarian aid for Gaza, and efforts to address the crisis in Sudan.
To remind, on October 17, the UK imposed sanctions on eighteen additional ships were barred from UK ports and denied access to British maritime services, increasing the total number of then sanctioned tankers to 43.
