In a bold move to counter Russia’s evasion tactics, the European Union has rolled out its 16th sanctions package, taking aim at the Kremlin’s shadow fleet and its energy revenue streams. As the war in Ukraine drags into its fourth year, the EU is doubling down on its efforts to disrupt Russia’s ability to fund its aggression.
The Shadow Fleet: A Growing Threat
Russia’s shadow fleet—a network of vessels operating under opaque ownership structures—has been a thorn in the side of global sanctions. These ships, often dubbed the “dark fleet,” have been instrumental in keeping Russian oil exports flowing despite international restrictions. By exploiting legal loopholes and flying under the radar, the fleet has allowed Moscow to sidestep penalties and maintain its energy revenue.
The EU’s latest sanctions package targets 74 additional vessels, bringing the total number of blacklisted ships to 153. These vessels are now banned from EU ports and prohibited from receiving services. The move is part of a broader strategy to clamp down on Russia’s ability to fund its military-industrial complex and sustain its war efforts.
Targeting the Financial Backbone
Beyond the maritime crackdown, the EU has also turned its attention to Russia’s financial infrastructure. Thirteen financial institutions have been added to the list of entities banned from accessing specialized financial messaging services. Three banks face transaction bans for their use of Russia’s SPFS system, a tool designed to circumvent Western sanctions.
The sanctions also extend to 53 companies within Russia and 34 firms abroad that support Moscow’s military-industrial complex or engage in sanctions evasion. These measures aim to disrupt the flow of goods, technology, and services critical to Russia’s war machine.
Energy Exports in the Crosshairs
In a significant escalation, the EU has imposed a complete ban on the temporary storage of Russian crude oil and petroleum products in EU ports. Previously allowed under strict conditions, this practice has now been outlawed, further tightening the screws on Russia’s energy exports.
The sanctions also target Russia’s ambitious energy projects, including the Vostok oil initiative. The EU has prohibited the supply of goods, technology, and services for the completion of Russian LNG and crude oil projects, effectively stalling Moscow’s plans to expand its energy infrastructure.
A Unified Front Against the Dark Fleet
The EU’s efforts are part of a broader international push to curb Russia’s shadow fleet activities. In late 2024, twelve countries—including the UK, Germany, and Norway—joined forces to monitor and deter the fleet’s operations in key maritime corridors. These nations have pledged to demand proof of insurance from suspected shadow vessels, ensuring greater transparency and accountability.
The UK has already taken action, imposing penalties on 20 shadow fleet vessels believed to have transported millions of barrels of Russian oil in 2024. This coordinated effort underscores the global commitment to disrupting Russia’s illicit activities and holding it accountable for its actions.
