The European Union is preparing to significantly enhance control over vessels of the so-called “shadow fleet” of Russia, which are used to transport oil under various flags to evade sanctions. Such actions could not only bolster Moscow’s military economy but also create environmental and security threats for EU countries. In particular, there are concerns that shadow tankers could be used as tools for hybrid attacks.
This is reported by Finway
Strengthening International Maritime Law and Inspection Control
As part of a new initiative, the EU has begun developing a draft declaration aimed at expanding the legal framework of international maritime law to combat sanction evasion. If these changes are adopted, law enforcement agencies in EU countries will gain the ability to board suspicious tankers and conduct inspections directly on board shadow fleet vessels. The draft declaration is expected to be prepared by the end of November, with its approval planned for the next meeting of EU foreign ministers.
Following this, negotiations will take place with countries under whose flags Russian vessels operate regarding joint inspections of shadow tankers. It is already known that Panama has agreed to revoke the registration of vessels subject to European sanctions and has also decided to halt the registration of tankers older than 15 years.
New Sanctions: 19th and 20th Packages of Restrictions
As stated by EU High Representative Kaja Kallas before the start of the EU Council meeting in Luxembourg on October 20, the 19th package of sanctions against Russia may soon be approved.
“The 19th package of sanctions against Russia may be approved on Thursday, October 23”.
At the same time, discussions are already underway in the European Union regarding the preparation of the 20th, “anniversary” package of restrictions. Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys noted that the new package may include additional restrictions on the import of goods from Russia and Belarus, as well as sanctions targeting the energy and financial sectors of the Russian Federation.