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Switzerland Joins EU in Targeting Russia’s Shadow Fleet With 17th Sanctions Package

Switzerland has adopted additional restrictive measures against Russia, aligning with the European Union’s 17th sanctions package introduced on May 20, in response to Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine.
The decision was announced in an official press release by the Swiss Federal Council on June 3.
According to the statement, sanctions have been imposed on 17 individuals and 58 entities, primarily connected to Russia’s military-industrial complex. The measures include asset freezes and a ban on providing financial resources. All listed individuals are also subject to entry and transit bans in Switzerland.
In the maritime sector, Switzerland introduced restrictions on 189 vessels from third countries, mainly tankers associated with Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet.” These ships have been used to bypass the oil price cap on Russian crude and petroleum products or to transport military goods to Russia.

Stricter export controls have also been placed on 31 additional organizations, including several based outside the EU. Moreover, Switzerland expanded the list of goods subject to export restrictions, specifically items that could contribute to Russia’s military or technological advancement, mirroring EU regulations.
Earlier, the European Union had formally adopted its 17th package of sanctions against Russia, intensifying pressure on Moscow over its ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
According to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, the new measures target nearly 200 vessels linked to Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet.” The package also addresses hybrid threats and ongoing human rights violations associated with Russia’s war efforts.
