EU Sanctions Russian ‘Shadow Fleet’ – Fast-Tracked Action

The European Union is accelerating the process of sanctioning vessels operating in Russia’s “shadow fleet” that transport Russian oil, independent of its regular sanctions packages. The move towards a more flexible and expedited approach was announced by EU diplomats in Brussels on December 12.

EU to Expedite Sanctions on Russia’s Shadow Fleet

The first step in this new approach will take place on December 15, when the EU Foreign Affairs Council is expected to add approximately a dozen more vessels linked to the shadow fleet to its sanctions list. While this action is anticipated, the 20th sanctions package against Russia is still under discussion and will not be finalized during this meeting.

The EU has opted to act more swiftly by adding ships to its sanctions list immediately after they are identified, due to the time-consuming nature of implementing new sanctions packages. Diplomats stated this approach will allow for continued effective action against Russia’s attempts to circumvent sanctions, with one diplomat noting the measures have already had a significant impact on Russia’s economy.

The EU will also be able to impose sanctions outside of the standard sanctions packages on those supporting the shadow fleet, though all decisions will still require unanimous approval from the EU Council.

Ministers will also discuss strengthening ship inspections in territorial waters, drawing inspiration from France’s recent detention of the Boracay tanker, flagged under Benin. French law allows military officers to board ships, with cases then transferred to the prosecutor’s office. However, not all EU countries have similar legal frameworks, and ministers are expected to work towards a unified European approach.

The European Union previously imposed additional sanctions on Russia, specifically targeting its shadow fleet, following approval by the bloc’s ambassadors, according to Rikard Jozwiak, Editor of Radio Free Europe. These new measures include sanctions against nine individuals and entities involved in facilitating Russia’s shadow fleet, and a blacklist of 43 vessels linked to the fleet is set to be formally approved.