EU to Fast-Track Sanctions on Russia’s “Shadow Fleet” Outside Formal Packages
The European Union has decided to introduce sanctions against vessels involved in transporting Russian oil independently of its formal sanctions packages.
The Gaze reports this, referring to Deutsche Welle.
Under the new approach, ships suspected of helping Russia circumvent existing oil restrictions can be added to EU sanctions lists as soon as they are identified, rather than waiting for the adoption of comprehensive sanctions packages.
The first application of the revised mechanism is expected on Monday, December 15, during a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council. According to sources familiar with the discussions, around a dozen additional vessels linked to Russia’s shadow fleet are set to be sanctioned. At the same time, the approval of the 20th EU sanctions package is not anticipated, as negotiations on it are still at an early stage.
EU officials say the shift reflects frustration with delays that allow sanctioned oil exports to continue through opaque shipping networks. One diplomat stressed that rapid listings are essential to maintaining pressure on Russia and preventing the systematic evasion of existing restrictions. Another noted that measures targeting the shadow fleet have already produced tangible economic effects for Moscow.
In addition to vessels themselves, the EU is now considering the possibility of sanctioning individuals and entities assisting the shadow fleet outside the broader packages. Such decisions, however, will still require unanimous approval from all EU member states.
Foreign ministers are also expected to discuss ways to strengthen inspections of suspect vessels in EU territorial waters and move toward a more coordinated enforcement framework.
As a reference point, diplomats are examining France’s recent detention of the tanker Boracay, which was sailing under the flag of Benin. French law allows a maritime prefect to authorize a military boarding of a vessel, after which the case can be transferred to prosecutors.
Not all EU countries currently have similar legal provisions, prompting ministers to exchange best practices and explore the development of a pan-European model for dealing with shadow fleet vessels.
As The Gaze reported earlier, Russia has built up a vast “shadow fleet” of oil tankers, which now accounts for nearly one in every six such vessels operating globally.
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