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UK Targets Russian Oil Tankers in Expanded Sanctions as Starmer Reaffirms Defence Commitments

Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasizes support for Ukraine, announces sanctions on Russian shipping, and advances plans for a major defence overhaul.

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Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer is shown an interactive map during a visit to Leonardo, one of the biggest suppliers of defence and security equipment to the UK MOD, in Luton, north of London, Britain, May 2, 2025. HENRY NICHOLLS/Pool via REUTERS/File Photo
Sir Keir Starmer with British soldiers at Salisbury Plain, Wiltshire, where Ukrainian soldiers were undergoing training by the Army, in August 2022 (Photo: Stefan Rousseau/PA Wire)
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Overview

  • Prime Minister Keir Starmer attended the Joint Expeditionary Force summit in Oslo, reiterating unwavering UK and allied support for Ukraine against Russian aggression.
  • The UK government announced sanctions targeting up to 100 Russian oil tankers transporting $24 billion worth of cargo in violation of existing restrictions.
  • Starmer highlighted the upcoming 'root and branch' Strategic Defence Review, aiming to reshape the UK's military and bolster national resilience.
  • Plans to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027 were reaffirmed, with the government framing the hike as a 'defence dividend' to drive economic renewal and job creation.
  • A £563 million contract with Rolls-Royce to maintain Typhoon fighter jets was confirmed, supporting hundreds of jobs and showcasing the defence sector's role in industrial revitalization.