Coalition of 44 countries and EU called for action against Russia's shadow fleet
The EU and 44 countries will confront Russia's shadow fleet (GettyImages)
At the European Political Summit, the United Kingdom united the communities of 44 countries and the European Union to counter the activities of the so-called Russian shadow fleet, which helps Russia circumvent sanctions imposed against it, according to the UK government.
British officials clarified that the shadow fleet consists of vessels involved in illegal operations to bypass sanctions, evade safety or environmental regulations, avoid insurance costs, and more.
"We call on flag States to ensure that ships flying their flag adhere to highest possible safety and pollution prevention requirements and best practices," the document says.
The statement reads that the Russian shadow fleet poses a threat to all 44 signatory countries and others that rely on the world's seas and oceans. Therefore, the community intends to counter the risks it creates for the environment, maritime safety in Europe and beyond, the integrity of international maritime trade, and respect for international maritime law.
"I won't allow Russia's shadow fleet of oil tankers, and the dirty money it generates, to flow freely through European waters and put our security at risk. Ukraine is, and always will be, at the heart of my government’s agenda," wrote British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on his X profile.
UK's stance on Russia's war against Ukraine
The United Kingdom has consistently supported Kyiv since the beginning of the war. It was the first country to supply certain types of weapons to Ukraine, including tanks and missiles, which other countries were hesitant to provide.
The British Prime Minister also promised to double the support for Ukraine.
Additionally, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is in London on a visit, where he has already participated in a meeting of the Labour cabinet, which won the recent elections in Britain.
Furthermore, Zelenskyy asked Prime Minister Starmer to show his leadership on the issue of using Western weapons to strike Russian territory.
