Australia Targets Russias Deceptive Oil Tanker Fleet with New Sanctions

For the first time, Australia has announced sanctions against what it describes as Russia’s «shadow fleet» of oil tankers, the government reported on Wednesday.

The latest measures target 60 ships that are also facing sanctions from the United Kingdom, Canada, and the European Union.

According to a statement from Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, «These vessels are utilized by Russia to evade international sanctions and perpetuate its unlawful and unjust war against Ukraine.»

The statement continued, «Through deceptive tactics such as changing flags, disabling tracking technology, and operating without proper insurance, the shadow fleet facilitates the illegal trade of Russian oil and other prohibited goods.»

Since the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Australia has implemented over 1,400 sanctions against Russia.