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UK targets 135 Russian 'shadow fleet' tankers with fresh sanctions

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on July 21, 2025

2 min read

· Last updated: January 22, 2026

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UK targets 135 Russian 'shadow fleet' tankers with fresh sanctions
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LONDON (Reuters) -Britain on Monday imposed new sanctions on Russia's so-called "shadow fleet", targeting 135 oil tankers along with two Russian firms, shipping company Intershipping Services LLC and

UK targets 135 Russian 'shadow fleet' tankers with fresh sanctions

Overview of New Sanctions Against Russia

LONDON (Reuters) -Britain on Monday imposed new sanctions on Russia's so-called "shadow fleet", targeting 135 oil tankers along with two Russian firms, shipping company Intershipping Services LLC and oil trader Litasco Middle East DMCC.

Details on Targeted Companies

The oil tankers are critical to Russia's energy and oil sectors, with the British government saying they form part of the fleet responsible for carrying $24 billion worth of cargo since the start of 2024.  

Impact on Russian Oil Revenues

Foreign minister David Lammy said the new sanctions would further "dismantle" Russian President Vladimir Putin's so-called "shadow fleet and drain Russia's war chest of its critical oil revenues".

International Response to Sanctions

The government said Intershipping Services LLC is responsible for registering vessels under the Gabonese flag, enabling them to transport up to $10 billion worth of goods annually on behalf of the Russian state.

Sanctions were also imposed on Litasco Middle East DMCC for its continued role in shipping large volumes of Russian oil, the government said.

The Russian embassy in London did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment on the latest sanctions. Moscow has previously called Western sanctions illegal and said they destabilise global energy markets.

On Friday, the European Union agreed an 18th package of sanctions against Russia over its war in Ukraine, including measures aimed at dealing further blows to the Russian oil and energy industry.

As part of that, the EU and Britain set out plans to lower the crude oil price cap from $60 per barrel to $47.60 to disrupt Russia's oil revenues.

(Reporting by Muvija M, writing by Sam Tabahriti, editing by Catarina Demony)

Key Takeaways

  • UK targets 135 Russian tankers with new sanctions.
  • Sanctions aim to dismantle Russia's shadow fleet.
  • Intershipping Services and Litasco Middle East affected.
  • Sanctions could drain Russia's critical oil revenues.
  • EU and UK lower crude oil price cap to $47.60.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the new sanctions imposed by the UK?
The new sanctions aim to dismantle Russia's 'shadow fleet' and drain its critical oil revenues, further impacting President Vladimir Putin's war efforts.
Which companies are targeted by the UK's new sanctions?
The sanctions target two Russian firms, Intershipping Services LLC and Litasco Middle East DMCC, for their roles in facilitating Russian oil transport.
What has been the response from the Russian embassy in London?
The Russian embassy did not immediately respond to requests for comment, but has previously labeled Western sanctions as illegal and destabilizing.
What recent actions has the European Union taken regarding sanctions on Russia?
The European Union recently agreed on an 18th package of sanctions against Russia, which includes measures aimed at further disrupting the Russian oil and energy industry.
What is the new crude oil price cap set by the EU and the UK?
The EU and the UK have set plans to lower the crude oil price cap from $60 per barrel to $47.60 to further disrupt Russia's oil revenues.

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