The European Union has expanded its sanctions against Russia’s shadow fleet, adding 41 vessels to its blacklist and, for the first time, sanctioning a crewing agency accused of supporting sanctioned shipping operations.
The measures are part of the EU’s 21st sanctions package and bring the total number of sanctioned vessels to 673. In addition to oil tankers carrying Russian crude, the new listings include non-EU vessels providing services to the shadow fleet, such as bunkering.
The sanctions also target eight companies and one individual linked to the shadow fleet network, including entities working on behalf of major Russian oil producers.
The designation of a crewing agency marks a significant expansion of EU enforcement. Until now, sanctions had focused mainly on shipowners, operators and vessels. The new measure signals that companies involved in recruiting and managing crews for sanctioned ships could also face restrictions.
The package introduces new controls on LNG carriers as well. Companies must now notify authorities before selling LNG carriers, while the EU has created a legal framework to impose further restrictions on transfers of such vessels to Russian individuals or companies. The aim is to prevent ships from being used to support Russian energy exports.
The EU also extended its current G7 oil price cap mechanism until 15 July 2027, citing exceptional volatility in global energy markets following disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
The latest package reflects the EU’s broader strategy of targeting not only shadow fleet vessels but also the companies and services that support their operations.
