Trump is preparing additional sanctions for Russia's 'shadow fleet'
The administration of Donald Trump is considering the possibility of imposing new sanctions against Russia's 'shadow fleet' of oil tankers if Vladimir Putin does not agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine by Friday, reports the Financial Times.
Exclusive analysis showed that US sanctions against oil tankers are effective. The company Kpler found that the volume of Russian oil shipments has significantly decreased after sanctions to 13 million barrels per month, compared to 48 million previously.
'Aggressive action against the shadow fleet is a simple way to complicate life for Russia and reinforce the message being sent by the EU and the UK,' noted Benjamin Hilgenstock.
The Trump administration views additional sanctions as a first step to inflicting damage on Russia. It is also reported that Steve Vitkoff, Trump's special envoy, will visit Moscow this week.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky noted that during a phone conversation with Trump, potential sanctions against Russia were discussed. 'Their economy continues to decline, and that is why Moscow is paying so much attention to this prospect,' he said.
The Financial Times reported that the Biden administration has added 213 tankers to the sanctions list, while the EU has sanctioned over 100 vessels. Thus, a total of 415 vessels are under sanctions.
After Russia failed to comply with the ceasefire conditions in Ukraine, the Trump administration is considering additional sanctions against Russia's 'shadow fleet' of oil tankers. These actions aim to support Ukraine and complicate Russia's economic situation.