Britain imposes largest package of sanctions against Russia's shadow fleet
British Foreign Secretary David Lammy (Photo: Getty Images)
The United Kingdom has imposed sanctions on 30 ships from Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet,” which were involved in transporting oil and petroleum products worth billions of pounds. This is the largest sanctions package of its kind, aimed at limiting the Kremlin's ability to finance its war in Ukraine, according to the British government.
Half of these ships have transported oil and products worth over $4.3 billion in the last year.
The total number of oil tankers sanctioned by the UK has now reached 73, surpassing the sanctions imposed by any other country. Also included in the sanctions are the insurance companies servicing this fleet.
British Foreign Secretary David Lammy emphasized the importance of continued pressure on the Kremlin and noted that oil revenues are a key source of funding for Russia's war against Ukraine.
During a G7 foreign ministers meeting in Italy, Lammy urged the international community to intensify pressure on Russia and support Ukraine with military and financial aid. He also raised issues regarding migration, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and collaboration on strengthening defense within the Global Combat Air Programme.
Sanctions against Russia
In mid-July, the UK imposed sanctions on ships from Russia’s shadow fleet for the first time, which, according to British authorities, assist in circumventing Western oil export restrictions.
Additionally, the UK introduced sanctions against Russian military units specializing in radiation, chemical, and biological defense, as well as their commander, Igor Kirillov, in connection with accusations of chemical weapon use in Ukraine.
