Britain to impose largest ever sanctions package against Russia's shadow fleet
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will announce a large-scale package of sanctions against 100 Russian tankers in the shadow fleet on May 9, the British government has announced.
This is the largest sanctions package in history, aimed at increasing pressure on the Russian economy and protecting critical infrastructure in Britain and Europe.
In particular, the United Kingdom will impose restrictions on up to 100 ships that have transported more than $24 billion worth of oil since the beginning of 2024.
The British government says the activities of the shadow fleet pose a potential threat to underwater infrastructure, including communications cables and pipelines. Downing Street has said that such vessels often lack safety certificates and may deliberately disable navigation equipment.
The sanctions will also apply to individuals and companies involved in the operation of the shadow fleet. London stressed that the new restrictions are part of efforts to reduce Russia's revenues from oil exports and weaken its military capabilities.
The statement also notes that as a result of Western sanctions, Russia's revenues from the oil and gas sector have been decreasing every year since 2022, and the country's economy is facing inflation and rising defense spending.
In addition to sanctions, the JEF (Joint Expeditionary Force) countries are expected to announce a new phase of partnership with Ukraine. This includes support for the Ukrainian Armed Forces in the form of training, increased military cooperation, and combating disinformation.
The announcement will be made during the summit of JEF participating countries in Oslo.
The JEF includes ten countries – the United Kingdom, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, the Netherlands and Sweden.
- The European Union is considering imposing sanctions on Litasco Middle East DMCC, the Dubai-based trading arm of Russian oil giant PJSC Lukoil.
- On March 27, European Council President Antonio Costa said that the EU would not lift sanctions on Russia, but rather would continue to pressure the aggressor country .
- On March 28, EUobserver wrote that the EU is preparing a 17th package of sanctions against Russia, despite Putin's demands.
