Russia continues to use aging tankers to sell crude oil at prices above the Western-imposed cap. In response, the EU announced new sanctions targeting the shadow fleet, a group of poorly maintained and uninsured vessels. These ships evade restrictions through deceptive practices like falsifying data and switching off tracking devices.

The fleet, estimated at 600 vessels, often operates under flags of convenience from countries like Panama and Liberia. Their deteriorating condition raises concerns about oil spills and environmental damage near European waters. The EU aims to curtail these risks while disrupting Moscow’s revenue streams.

Expanded Measures Against Russia’s Oil Network

The sanctions include 50 shadow fleet ships and several Chinese companies linked to Russian drone production. Diplomats confirmed that the measures are part of the EU’s 15th sanctions package since the invasion of Ukraine began in 2022. Previous sanctions had targeted 27 ships, banning them from EU ports and services.

Ursula von der Leyen reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to pressuring the Kremlin. The sanctions focus on cutting off funds for Russia’s war economy, which heavily depends on oil exports. Between 2022 and 2024, Russia earned €475 billion from fossil fuel sales, with China and India as key buyers.

Brussels warns of the potential ecological disaster posed by the shadow fleet’s condition. By refining Russian oil and re-exporting it to Europe under new labels, China and India further complicate efforts to enforce sanctions.