UK Sanctions 18 Russian Oil Tankers in a Major Move

Britain has recently imposed sanctions on 18 more Russian oil tankers and four liquefied natural gas vessels, marking the largest batch of sanctions to date against Russia’s “shadow fleet.” This fleet is known for using illicit practices to circumvent Western restrictions on Russian oil. The UK government is collaborating with maritime authorities to demand that Russian vessels suspected of having dubious insurance disclose their insurance status as they pass through the English Channel. Any entity found facilitating Russia’s malign activities could face sanctions.

Russia has resisted Western pressure to limit its oil exports, leading to an increase in the number of tankers transporting cargoes that are not regulated or insured by conventional Western providers. The 18 sanctioned oil tankers will be prohibited from entering UK ports and accessing British maritime services, bringing the total number of sanctioned Russian oil tankers to 43. Notable vessels included in the sanctions are NS Bora, Atlas, and Moskovsky Prospect. The UK government believes that its persistent actions against the shadow fleet are disrupting Putin’s revenue streams.

In addition to the vessel sanctions, the UK also targeted Russian gas company Rusgazdobycha JSC as part of its efforts to combat malign Russian activities. Foreign Secretary David Lammy emphasized the importance of addressing various tactics used by Russia, from illicit strategies to cyber-attacks and aggression in Ukraine. The Russian Embassy in London did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the sanctions. Last year, the targeted oil tankers transported an estimated 4.9 billion pounds ($6.37 billion) worth of oil.

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