EU Adopts Fast-Track Approach to Sanction Russian Shadow Fleet, Regardless of Sanction Packages

The European Union has decided to expedite the process of sanctioning vessels in Russia’s so-called shadow fleet that are transporting Russian oil, regardless of the timing of general sanctions packages against Russia. This change towards a more flexible and faster approach was announced by EU diplomats in Brussels, DW reported on December 12.

The first step in this new approach will take place on December 15, when the EU Foreign Affairs Council is expected to add around a dozen more shadow fleet vessels to its sanctions list. While this move is expected, the 20th sanctions package, which includes more measures against Russia, is still in the early stages of discussion and will not be finalized during this meeting.

Due to the lengthy process of implementing new sanctions packages, the EU has opted to act more swiftly, adding ships to its sanctions list immediately after they are identified. Diplomats emphasized that this approach will allow for continued effective action against Russia’s circumvention of sanctions. One diplomat told DW that these measures have already had a significant impact on Russia’s economy.

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

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

Previously, it was reported that the European Union has imposed additional sanctions on Russia, particularly on its so-called shadow fleet, following the approval of the bloc’s ambassadors, Rikard Jozwiak, Editor of Radio Free Europe reported/

The new measures include anctions against nine individuals and entities involved in facilitating Russia’s shadow fleet.A blacklist of 43 vessels linked to the shadow fleet, set to be formally approved later.

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