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EU, UK, and Australia Launch New Sanctions for Russian Energy and Tankers
The European Union (EU) has unveiled its 19th sanctions package against Russia, joining the United Kingdom and Australia in escalating measures aimed at crippling Moscow’s energy revenues and shadow tanker fleet. The announcement came earlier than expected as part of a coordinated effort to pressure Russia over its ongoing war in Ukraine.
EU’s Sweeping New Measures
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen detailed the sanctions, citing increased Russian drone and missile attacks—including strikes that hit the EU office in Kyiv—and violations of NATO airspace in Poland and Romania.
Key elements of the EU package include:
- Ban on Russian LNG imports into European markets.
- Sanctions on 118 additional shadow fleet vessels, bringing the EU’s total to 560 tankers, surpassing the UK’s 495.Lowered price cap on Russian oil to $47.60 per barrel.
- Full transaction bans against Rosneft and Gazpromneft.
- Expanded sanctions targeting international refineries, oil traders, and petrochemical companies in third countries—including China—that continue to trade with Russia.
- New financial measures against banks and, for the first time, restrictions on cryptocurrency platforms to prevent sanction evasion.
Von der Leyen declared, “Russia has shown the full extent of its contempt for diplomacy and international law. It is time to turn off the tap.” She emphasized that the sanctions have already cut Russian oil revenues by 90%, driving 17% interest rates, high inflation, and reduced access to financing.
Australia Joins with Major Vessel Listings
Australia also announced a dramatic expansion, adding 955 shadow fleet vessels to its sanctions list—bringing its total to over 150 vessels since June 2025. Canberra confirmed it is aligning with international partners, including the EU, UK, Canada, New Zealand, and Japan, and adopting the $47.60 price cap while maintaining its total ban on Russian oil and refined petroleum imports.
UK Adds Georgian Supporters and Product Tankers
The United Kingdom expanded its list last week by adding 70 tankers, raising its total to 495 vessels. Today, it targeted two Georgian nationals accused of supporting Russia and added two Russian-owned product tankers—the Bavly (6,613 dwt) and Karakuz (6,640 dwt), both flagged in Russia—for transporting oil to the Georgian port of Batumi.
Global Sanctions Landscape
The coordinated moves by the EU, UK, and Australia highlight mounting pressure on Russia’s shadow tanker fleet, which is critical for bypassing international restrictions and sustaining Russian sea freight and oil exports. While the United States has yet to announce new measures, analysts note that Washington continues to urge Europe to reduce energy imports as trade negotiations unfold.
