Ukraine Hits Russia’s Shadow Fleet

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine has implemented new sanctions aimed at curbing Russian military support through its maritime operations. This significant move enacts decisions from the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine (NSDC), targeting both individuals and entities linked to Russia’s shadow fleet and military-industrial complex.

The fresh sanctions specifically address 225 ship captains who have been aiding the export of Russian petroleum products, despite existing sanctions from global powers such as the EU and the G7. These captains, hailing from 11 different countries including Russia, India, and the Philippines, have been instrumental in maneuvering vessels that contravene international sanctions by transporting oil through the Black, Red, and Baltic Seas. A majority of these vessels, 188 in total, were already subjected to sanctions by a group of nations including the EU, the US, the UK, and others.

Additionally, Ukraine’s second wave of sanctions targets 46 Russian citizens, two Iranian citizens, and 44 companies that support Russia’s military efforts. These entities are involved in supplying and maintaining essential components used in warfare technologies such as ballistic missiles, drones, and small arms. The sanctioned Iranian citizens have been identified as suppliers of aviation parts for the Iran Aircraft Manufacturing Industries Corporation, a body already under sanctions for collaborating with Russia on military drone production.

In his statement, Vladyslav Vlasiuk, Advisor – Commissioner of the President for Sanctions Policy, emphasized the critical nature of these sanctions in disrupting the financial and operational foundations that support Russian military activities. Ukraine plans to coordinate closely with international partners to ensure the effectiveness of these sanctions and aims to extend them further to include more individuals and entities that facilitate Russian aggression.