Australia imposes first ever sanctions on Russia’s shadow fleet

In a first, the Australian government has imposed sanctions on 60 vessels linked to Russia’s shadow fleet.

IMAGE: Flag of Australia. Getty Images

The alleged vessels often circumvent the G7 oil price cap. They have repeatedly conducted illicit ship-to-ship (STS) transfers and manipulate Automatic Identification Systems (AIS).

By assembling a shadow fleet of poorly maintained vessels that are used to circumvent sanctions meant to restrict the movement of Russian commodities, the country has effectively traded outside the imposed price caps, according to the Australian government.

“Operating under deceptive practices, including flag-hopping, disabling tracking systems, and operating with inadequate insurance, the shadow fleet enables the illicit trade of Russian oil and other sanctioned goods,” Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said.

These sanctions are strategic measures aimed at reducing Russia's export revenue, Wong added. This limitation is intended to restrict the financial resources that Russia can allocate towards sustaining its military operations in Ukraine.

“Alongside those of key international partners, including Canada, the United Kingdom and the European Union, these sanctions help starve the Russian war economy of oil revenue,” she added.

Australia has so far imposed more than 1,400 sanctions in response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, extending beyond the energy and shipping sectors.

“Australia once again calls on Russia to immediately end this war and withdraw from Ukrainian territory,” Wong remarked.

By Aparupa Mazumder

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