The European Union is considering the introduction of a new, 20th sanctions package against the Russian Federation. Special attention is planned to be given to combating the shadow fleet of Russia, which is used to circumvent existing restrictions. To enhance the effectiveness of the sanctions, the EU plans to intensify cooperation with countries that register vessels involved in the transportation of petroleum products under the flags of third countries.
This is reported by Finway
Diplomatic Efforts and New Initiatives
The European Union has already conducted a series of extensive diplomatic negotiations with countries that allow the registration of shadow fleet vessels. As a result of these consultations, as noted by the EU, a significant portion of such vessels has been removed from the registries.
“To a large extent successfully” convinced many of them to deregister tankers.
Poland has proposed involving port and coastal countries in the process, as well as organizations that facilitate the operations of vessels associated with the shadow fleet. Among the initiatives are new regulations and coordination of actions, particularly regarding situations when there is a need to board a vessel for inspection.
Sanctions for Human Rights Violations and Timeline for Adoption
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot stated that the EU could finalize the preparation of the new sanctions package by the end of the current year. In addition to measures against the shadow fleet, sanctions are planned against six judges and four staff members of penitentiary institutions involved in the mistreatment of political prisoners in Russia.