**Britain Targets Russia’s Shadow Fleet in Massive Sanctions Move**
As the Russo-Ukrainian war rages on, the British government has taken a significant step to cut off Moscow’s illicit oil supply chains. On May 9th, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the largest sanctions package in the country’s history, targeting 100 Russian oil tankers linked to what is known as the “shadow fleet.” This move aims to disrupt Russia’s ability to smuggle oil worth $24 billion and cripple its war efforts.
**The Shadow Fleet: A Threat to Europe**
The targeted vessels operate outside official maritime routes and have been described as decrepit and dangerous. They pose a significant threat to European subsea infrastructure, including undersea cables and pipelines. Many of these ships lack safety certification and the necessary technology to avoid critical infrastructure, and some may deliberately disable locator systems. This reckless behavior not only endangers the environment but also puts at risk the stability of Europe’s energy supplies.
**Economic Blow to Russia**
Russia has been facing a steady decline in oil and gas revenue since Western sanctions were imposed in 2022. The losses have been staggering, exceeding one-third of total value over three years. The Kremlin’s wealth fund is shrinking, inflation is rising, and defense expenditure is surging. This massive sanction package will likely deal another significant blow to Russia’s economy.
**PM Starmer: “Masterminded by Putin’s Cronies”**
Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized that the shadow fleet plays a central role in circumventing sanctions and financing the Kremlin’s war against Ukraine. He described the fleet as being “masterminded by [Russian President] Putin’s cronies.” The PM also highlighted that the fleet is not only bankrolling the war but also damaging critical national infrastructure through reckless seafaring.
**A Bold Move to Protect Europe**
The UK government’s decision to target the shadow fleet is a bold move to protect Europe from the risks posed by these illicit vessels. It demonstrates Britain’s commitment to standing up against Russian aggression and protecting its own economic interests. As the war in Ukraine continues, this sanction package will likely have far-reaching consequences for Russia’s economy and global influence.
Read More @ euromaidanpress.com
