The European Union and the United Kingdom have introduced new sanctions against Russia, focusing on a secret group of ships called the “shadow fleet” used to illegally transport oil and gas. The EU announced on Tuesday that it is targeting 189 more ships, bringing the total to nearly 350. These ships are believed to help Russia avoid Western sanctions by secretly carrying oil and even stolen Ukrainian grain, according to France 24. “This shadow fleet is a danger,” said Kaja Kallas, the EU’s foreign policy chief. “While President Putin pretends to want peace, Russia’s actions continue. These

The European Union and the United Kingdom have introduced new sanctions against Russia, focusing on a secret group of ships called the “shadow fleet” used to illegally transport oil and gas. The EU announced on Tuesday that it is targeting 189 more ships, bringing the total to nearly 350. These ships are believed to help Russia avoid Western sanctions by secretly carrying oil and even stolen Ukrainian grain, according to France 24. “This shadow fleet is a danger,” said Kaja Kallas, the EU’s foreign policy chief. “While President Putin pretends to want peace, Russia’s actions continue. These sanctions show there will be consequences.” Ukrainian officials say the shadow fleet includes around 500 old ships with unclear ownership and poor safety records. These ships continue to help Russia earn money from oil exports, despite sanctions. Some of the ships are also suspected of damaging underwater cables. For example, Finnish police recently seized a Russian-linked ship, the 'Eagle S', which they believe damaged a power cable between Finland and Estonia. The EU’s new sanctions also target companies and people who help the shadow fleet operate, including an insurance company. Some of these are based in the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, and Hong Kong. Meanwhile, the UK has announced 100 new sanctions aimed at stopping Russian oil exports and weapons production. Eighteen more ships in the shadow fleet were also sanctioned by Britain. “Putin’s latest attacks show who he really is a warmonger,” said UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy. “We are increasing the pressure on him. We call on Russia to agree to a full and unconditional ceasefire.” The EU has already imposed many sanctions since Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24, 2022. Over 2,400 people and organizations have been affected, including banks, companies, and military suppliers. “These new measures are not linked to a ceasefire delay,” said an EU official. “They’ve been in the works since the last round of sanctions three months ago.” International experts say there are at least 400 ships in this dark fleet, many carrying oil or fuel products like diesel and gasoline.

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