**UK Imposes “Largest Ever” Sanctions on Russia’s Shadow Fleet**
The United Kingdom has taken a significant step in its efforts to disrupt Russia’s ability to finance the war against Ukraine. On May 9, London announced a sanctions package targeting what it calls Russia’s “shadow fleet,” a network of aging oil tankers used to circumvent international sanctions.
According to officials, the latest round of sanctions names 100 shadow fleet tankers that have shipped over $24 billion in cargo since 2024. These vessels often operate under obscure ownership structures and use flags of convenience to evade Western oversight.
The UK’s sanctions package also targets an additional ship “involved in obtaining a benefit from or supporting” the Kremlin, as well as several individuals and entities in the Russian energy and financial services sectors. The penalties are intended to disrupt Russia’s ability to finance its war effort and protect undersea infrastructure from the risks posed by potentially unsafe vessels.
“This is a significant blow to Russia’s attempts to evade sanctions,” said Prime Minister Keir Starmer. “We will do everything in our power to destroy their shadow fleet operation, starve their war machine of oil revenues, and protect the subsea infrastructure that we rely on for our everyday lives.”
**UK Takes Lead in Targeting Shadow Fleet**
The UK’s latest sanctions package marks a significant milestone in its efforts to target Russia’s shadow fleet. With 101 vessels named, London has imposed penalties on more shadow fleet vessels than any other country.
The UK’s lead role in targeting the shadow fleet is part of its broader efforts to support Ukraine and counter Russian aggression. The Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF), a coalition of 10 northern European NATO countries led by the UK, met in Oslo today to discuss the issue.
**Enhanced Partnership with Ukraine**
The JEF coalition is working to establish an enhanced partnership with Ukraine, providing training and disinformation support to Kyiv while learning from the battlefield experience of Ukrainian troops. This cooperation reflects the growing recognition among Western allies that Russia’s aggression must be met with a united and robust response.
As Abbey Fenbert, a senior news editor at the Kyiv Independent, notes: “The UK’s leadership on this issue is crucial in supporting Ukraine’s efforts to counter Russian aggression.”
