The EU and U.K. are cracking down on Russia’s covert oil trade, targeting nearly 200 ships in a sweeping new sanctions package.
At a Glance
- The EU and U.K. sanctioned nearly 200 tankers in Russia’s “shadow fleet”
- These vessels are accused of circumventing Western oil sanctions
- New measures include asset freezes and travel bans against Russian-linked entities
- EU leaders hint at deeper future sanctions, including financial and energy sectors
EU Strikes at Russia’s Maritime Lifeline
In their 17th package of sanctions since the invasion of Ukraine, the European Union—backed by the U.K.—has delivered a decisive blow to Russia’s efforts to evade oil restrictions. The joint move targets nearly 200 vessels allegedly part of a “shadow fleet” used by Moscow to skirt Western export bans.
These ships, often decades old and operating under murky ownership and dubious safety records, are central to Russia’s efforts to move oil discreetly and generate critical revenues. According to Marine Insight, the EU is cracking down not only on the vessels themselves but also the insurers, brokers, and shipping companies aiding their operations—many based in Turkey and the UAE.
Watch a report: EU Sanctions Russia’s ‘Ghost’ Oil Fleet.
Widening the Economic Squeeze
This latest round of sanctions includes asset freezes and travel bans on additional Russian individuals and institutions, expanding the EU’s financial net. Kaja Kallas, the EU’s foreign policy chief, stated that “In order to make Russia want peace, we need to put more pressure on Russia.” Her sentiment was echoed by U.K. Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who said Russia’s recent actions “show his true colors as a warmonger.”
The U.K. added its own 100 sanctions, targeting entities linked to logistics, shipping, and financing. “Ramping up pressure” is now the official strategy, as stated by Britain’s Foreign Office.
What’s Next for Sanctions?
Despite repeated sanctions, Russia’s oil sector continues to function—albeit under increasing strain. The targeting of its shadow fleet is designed to disrupt an essential artery of revenue. According to France24, the EU is now considering an 18th package aimed at Russian financial networks and gas infrastructure, marking a shift toward more systemic economic disruption.
The West’s unified front may finally be pinching the Kremlin’s long-term war footing. “It takes two to want peace, and only one to want war,” Kallas emphasized—underscoring the stakes in this global standoff.
As global inflation and energy instability loom, the EU’s crackdown on Russia’s clandestine oil operations sends a sharp message: economic manipulation will be met with coordinated international resistance. Whether Moscow bends or escalates, the sanctions saga is far from over.
