EU lifts sanctions on three Japanese tankers after they ceased transporting Russian LNG
Illustrative photo: Japanese tankers removed from the EU sanctions list (Getty Images)
The European Union has lifted sanctions against three tankers of the Japanese company Mitsui O.S.K. Lines. These tankers previously transported Russian liquefied natural gas, Reuters reports.
The European Union has removed three tankers — North Moon, North Ocean, and North Light — from its sanctions list. These vessels previously transported cargo from the Yamal LNG plant and participated in ship-to-ship transfers off the coast of Murmansk. These restrictions were part of the EU’s 18th sanctions package.
According to the European Commission’s website, the removal became possible after receiving firm guarantees that the mentioned ships will no longer be involved in transporting Russian liquefied natural gas, particularly from the Yamal and Arctic LNG 2 projects, for which they were originally ordered.
"This action demonstrates the impact of EU vessel designations, and that vessels can be returned to service following firm commitments," the Commission explained.
All three tankers were built last year at the South Korean shipyard Hanwha Ocean.
New sanctions against Russia
Last week, the European Union approved its 18th sanctions package against Russia. The new restrictions were negotiated for a long time, as the process was blocked by Slovakia.
A key measure is the new dynamic mechanism for capping oil prices — now the price cap will be set 15% below the average market price of Russian oil.
As a result, the price cap has been lowered to $47.60 per barrel.
