UK slaps Russian bunker vessels with new sanctions

The UK government has imposed a package of 31 sanctions targeting Russian LNG tankers and bunkering vessels, among others.

IMAGE: Getty Images

The new sanctions package targets eight vessels, including LNG tankers and bunkering vessels allegedly linked to Russia’s shadow fleet, aimed at limiting oil revenues flowing to its war chest.

The eight sanctioned vessels include three shadow fleet tankers, two vessels providing them with bunkering services, and three Russian-owned ice-class vessels.

“[The] action comes as Russia fired over 3,100 jet powered drones into Ukraine in September,” the UK government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office said in a statement.

These sanctions are aimed at curbing Moscow’s attempt to build a “dangerous new” shadow fleet to circumvent sanctions and sustain revenues from its gas exports, the UK government said.

These vessels will be subject to shipping and trade sanctions in the UK.  

The new package also includes 23 individuals and entities involved in supporting Kremlin’s offensive against Ukraine, the UK government said.

A shadow fleet is made up of older vessels that intentionally evade regulations. By assembling a shadow fleet of poorly maintained vessels to circumvent sanctions, Russia has generated revenue to support its war in Ukraine.

By Aparupa Mazumder

Please get in touch with comments or additional info to news@engine.online