UK Strikes at Russia’s Shadow Fleet with Sweeping Sanctions on 135 Oil Tankers

The United Kingdom has announced a major new round of sanctions targeting Russia’s so-called 'shadow fleet'—a network of 135 oil tankers and two associated companies used to secretly transport Russian oil and evade existing international restrictions.

These measures are designed to cut off billions in oil revenue that the Kremlin uses to fund its war in Ukraine. The sanctions also target trading arms and shipping companies linked to Russia’s energy sector, including Lukoil’s Dubai-based unit. The move is part of a broader Western effort, in coordination with the EU, to disrupt Russia’s ability to bypass sanctions and undermine its critical energy exports.

Analysts say the crackdown could have significant impacts on global shipping and insurance markets, as well as on Russia’s ability to finance its military operations.