Europe prepares a coordinated response to threats from Russia’s “shadow fleet”
The European Union is stepping up its fight against russia’s “shadow fleet” — a network of tankers moscow uses to bypass sanctions and continue profiting from oil exports. These vessels often change flags, operate without insurance, conceal their routes, and pose threats to the environment and the safety of European seas.
▫️ The European External Action Service has prepared a document proposing to expand the powers of EU member states to inspect “shadow fleet” vessels. The plan includes signing bilateral agreements between the EU and flag states.
▫️ The EU is already engaging with several key flag states on this issue. It is also known that Panama has agreed to stop registering sanctioned and aging tankers. The next step could be a ban on providing logistical and technical support to “shadow fleet” vessels.
Europe recognizes the real threat posed by the “shadow fleet” — not only economic but also security-related. Ships transporting russian oil are increasingly seen as tools of hybrid influence. The EU’s plan for joint action against the “shadow fleet” is an important signal: Europe is ready to take practical steps to counter the schemes through which the kremlin funds its war.
