The U.S. recently imposed sanctions on six Russian oil tankers still under construction at the Zvezda shipyard, marking a precedent of targeting vessels before they have even set sail.
According to Reuters, the buyers of these tankers include Russia’s Sovcomflot for two vessels and Rosnefteflot, Rosneft’s shipping arm, for the remaining four. Both entities, as well as the shipyard, are already under U.S. sanctions. The measures aim to disrupt Russia’s shadow fleet.
Despite the significant implications, responses from Russian companies and U.S. authorities have been limited, with major stakeholders declining to comment on the developments, Reuters reports.
The sanctions underscore a tightening U.S. stance on curbing Russia’s oil trade amidst the ongoing geopolitical conflict. They sanctions are part of broader efforts to hinder Russia’s oil exports and its attempts to build a self-reliant fleet.