Britain imposes further sanctions on Russian shadow fleet and military suppliers

Britain has imposed new sanctions targeting Russia’s energy sector and military in an effort to curb Moscow’s ability to continue its aggression against Ukraine. The measures target 70 ships in the so-called Russian shadow fleet and 30 companies and individuals supporting the Russian military, the British Foreign Office said today. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper will meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv today, the ministry said.

“Britain will not stand idly by as (Russian President Vladimir) Putin continues his barbaric invasion of Ukraine. His utter disregard for sovereignty was on display this week when he recklessly sent drones into NATO airspace,” the minister said.

British sanctions are intended to curb the operations of 70 oil tankers that London says are part of the so-called Russian shadow fleet. The term refers to foreign vessels that transport Russian oil products and help Moscow circumvent export restrictions. British diplomacy has targeted these vessels several times, most recently adding 135 ships to its sanctions list in July. According to the ministry, Britain now has sanctions in place against more oil tankers than any other country in the world.

The measures also target companies based in countries such as China and Turkey, as well as their Russian or Azerbaijani owners. According to London, they supply electronics and other equipment used by the Russian military, including in Iskander missiles used to attack Ukrainian cities.

Britain usually coordinates its sanctions with the European Union. The European Commission is preparing its 19th sanctions package, which it is expected to present in the coming days. It could again target the Russian shadow fleet as well as the energy and financial sectors. Czechia is once again pushing for the package to restrict the movement of Russian diplomats within the Schengen area.