UK Targets Russian Oil and LNG in New Sanctions

The United Kingdom has introduced what it describes as its most extensive sanctions package against Russia since the early stages of the war in Ukraine, placing particular emphasis on oil tankers and LNG shipping in an effort to curb Moscow’s energy income.

Announced on Tuesday, the new measures affect nearly 300 entities, with a strong focus on the transportation and trade of Russian crude and liquefied natural gas.

Among the primary targets is pipeline operator Transneft, responsible for handling over 80 percent of Russia’s crude exports. According to the UK government, the action aims to further reduce Russia’s oil revenues, which officials say have already dropped to their lowest level since 2020.

Shipping plays a key role in the latest round of restrictions. The package includes sanctions on 48 tankers associated with Russia’s so-called shadow fleet, used to transport crude beyond the reach of Western controls. In addition, 175 companies connected to the 2Rivers trading network, a major operator in moving Russian oil cargoes, have been designated.

The measures also extend to Russia’s LNG transport and export infrastructure. Two gas carriers, LNG Soars and Kunpeng, have been sanctioned, along with the Baltic export terminals Portovaya and Vysotsk and their operators. Traders involved in handling LNG shipments have also been included.

The UK government said the objective is to disrupt the shadow fleet’s operations and limit Russia’s capacity to sell energy internationally.

Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that the new sanctions are intended to “disrupt the critical financing, military equipment and revenue streams that sustain Russia’s aggression”.

Beyond energy and shipping, the package covers 49 entities linked to Russia’s military supply chains, three civilian nuclear firms seeking contracts abroad, and nine Russian banks engaged in international payment activities.

The announcement coincided with Cooper’s visit to Kyiv, where she confirmed an additional £30 million in support for Ukraine’s energy system. Total UK assistance since the beginning of the conflict now stands at £21.8 billion.

The government added that more than 3,000 individuals, companies, and vessels have been sanctioned under the UK’s Russia regime to date.

Meanwhile, the European Union was unable to approve its 20th sanctions package this week after Hungary blocked the proposal amid disagreements over oil supplies and a €90 billion loan for Ukraine.