Oil & Gas

The European Union and the United Kingdom have intensified their crackdown on Russia’s shadow fleet, announcing a new wave of sanctions targeting nearly 200 vessels allegedly used to evade Western oil and gas restrictions. The EU’s 27-member bloc unveiled asset freezes and travel bans affecting 189 ships, individuals, and companies including insurers and logistics enablers from the UAE, Turkey, and Hong Kong believed to be supporting the shadow fleet’s illicit operations. These ships are reportedly instrumental in transporting sanctioned Russian oil and gas, as well as stolen Ukrainian grain, using deceptive practices to remain under the radar. Concerns have also risen over their environmental and security risks, with some vessels suspected of damaging Baltic Sea undersea infrastructure.

In a parallel move, the UK sanctioned 100 more Russian-related entities, including 18 additional vessels and suppliers of key military hardware like Iskander missiles. British officials described the sanctions as part of a broader campaign to “ramp up pressure” on the Kremlin and choke off financing for its war efforts in Ukraine. While these new sanctions are not directly tied to any ceasefire delays, they reflect mounting frustration in the West with Russia’s continued aggression and evasion tactics. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stressed that peace cannot come without accountability, warning that those aiding Russia will continue to face “severe consequences.”