UK announces sanctions on Russia’s shadow fleet
On May 9, the United Kingdom announced its most extensive sanctions package to date against Russia, targeting 100 oil tankers that make up the Kremlin’s so-called “shadow fleet,” along with an additional vessel linked to Russian government support.
Moscow’s shadow fleet consists largely of aging tankers used to circumvent international sanctions imposed by the UK, European Union, and the United States. These ships typically operate under murky ownership structures, fly flags of convenience, and avoid Western regulatory oversight.
According to a government press release, the 100 tankers named in this latest round of sanctions have collectively transported over $24 billion worth of cargo since 2024. The new measures also target a separate vessel believed to be directly aiding the Russian government, as well as multiple individuals and organizations involved in Russia’s energy and financial sectors.
“Russia’s threat to our national security is serious and ongoing,” said Prime Minister Keir Starmer. “That’s why we are doing everything in our power to dismantle its shadow fleet, deprive its war machine of vital oil revenues, and safeguard the undersea infrastructure that supports our daily lives.”
This action makes the UK the global leader in imposing sanctions on shadow fleet vessels.
Starmer announced the new sanctions during a meeting of the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) in Oslo—a UK-led coalition of 10 northern European NATO nations. In January, the JEF launched a maritime monitoring system to alert allies of ships posing a threat to subsea cables and to keep tabs on Russia’s shadow fleet operations.
The system was developed following recent damage to telecommunications and energy cables in the Baltic Sea, incidents that raised concerns about the vulnerability of underwater infrastructure.
The JEF also reaffirmed its commitment to deepening cooperation with Ukraine. According to UK officials, the coalition will support Kyiv with training programs and counter-disinformation efforts while learning from the frontline experience of Ukrainian forces.
Meanwhile, Russia is facing a deepening fiscal crisis and Europe advances Nuremberg 2.0 for Putin.