The Council of the European Union has announced new restrictive measures against 41 vessels that, according to the EU, are part of Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet” of oil tankers. These measures are aimed at further reducing Moscow’s revenues from energy exports obtained by circumventing the oil price cap mechanism.
According to an official statement by the Council of the EU, the sanctions include a ban on these tankers entering EU ports, as well as on providing them with a wide range of maritime transport services, including maintenance and insurance.
“Today, the Council imposed restrictive measures on 41 vessels belonging to the shadow fleet of oil tankers that contribute to Russia’s energy revenues,” the press release said.
These tankers are accused of circumventing the price cap on Russian oil, supporting the Russian energy sector, and transporting military equipment for Russia and grain and cultural property stolen from Ukraine.
As a result of this decision, the total number of ships subject to similar EU sanctions is approaching 600. The new measures are closely linked to the recent sanctions imposed on December 15, when nine individuals and entities contributing to the operation of the “shadow fleet” were subject to restrictions.
The European Union emphasizes its readiness to further increase pressure on Russia and related structures, including the possible introduction of additional sanctions against the entire supply chain of the “shadow fleet.”
