Overview
- EU member states are reviewing a 15th sanctions package against Russia, focusing on its use of a 'shadow fleet' to circumvent oil embargoes.
- The 'shadow fleet' consists of aging, often uninsured tankers operating under foreign flags to transport Russian oil despite sanctions.
- Proposed measures include banning listed ships from docking at EU ports, with up to 50 vessels potentially affected.
- Environmental groups warn that the outdated tankers pose significant risks of oil spills in the Baltic Sea, intensifying calls for stricter enforcement.
- The sanctions package is expected to be finalized by December, with further measures planned for February to mark the third anniversary of the Ukraine war.