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3w ago

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.