Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called on European nations to adopt stronger legal measures aimed at blocking Russian “shadow fleet” oil tankers and seizing their cargo, as part of efforts to tighten sanctions and weaken Moscow’s economic leverage.
Zelensky made the appeal while addressing leaders of the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) during a meeting in Helsinki, Finland. In his remarks, he emphasised the need for a coordinated legal framework across Europe to effectively counter Russia’s attempts to bypass existing sanctions imposed following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
“We need joint action to create strong laws in Europe that allow countries to block Russian tankers and confiscate the oil,” Zelensky said. “This should be a real tool to take away Russia’s ability to pressure Europe.”
The Ukrainian leader urged participating nations not only to strengthen their domestic legislation but also to encourage broader adoption of such measures across the continent. According to him, a unified approach would significantly enhance the effectiveness of enforcement and close loopholes currently exploited by sanctioned entities.
“Please also help others in Europe move these decisions forward and implement them at home,” he added.
The “shadow fleet” refers to a network of vessels allegedly used by Russia to transport oil outside the scope of Western sanctions. These ships typically operate under opaque ownership structures, frequently change names or flags, and often lack proper insurance coverage. Many of them are described as aging and poorly maintained, raising environmental and safety concerns in addition to their role in sanctions evasion.
Zelensky noted that the continued operation of these vessels undermines the impact of international sanctions designed to limit Russia’s revenue from oil exports. By circumventing restrictions, the shadow fleet enables Moscow to sustain a key source of income, thereby prolonging its capacity to finance the ongoing war.
He commended recent actions taken by several European countries, including Denmark, Sweden, and France, which have moved to enforce sanctions more aggressively. These measures have included the interception and seizure of vessels suspected of being part of the shadow fleet.
“Their actions were a clear demonstration that enforcement is not only possible but effective,” Zelensky said, pointing to these efforts as examples for other nations to follow.
Recent incidents underscore the growing attention being paid to the issue. The French navy reportedly seized a tanker in the Mediterranean Sea over suspicions of sanctions violations, while Swedish authorities detained the vessel Sea Owl I and arrested its captain on allegations of document falsification.
In the United Kingdom, the government has introduced new powers authorising its military to board, inspect, and seize sanctioned vessels entering British waters. The move is part of a broader strategy to crack down on illicit maritime activities linked to Russia’s oil trade.
European Union data suggests that nearly 600 ships are currently suspected of being part of Russia’s shadow fleet and have been placed under sanctions. However, enforcement remains uneven, with some vessels continuing to operate in international waters and exploit legal and regulatory gaps.
Analysts say Zelensky’s call reflects growing frustration in Kyiv over the limitations of existing sanctions and the need for more robust enforcement mechanisms. They argue that without stronger legal backing and coordinated action, efforts to curb Russia’s oil exports through unofficial channels may fall short.
At the same time, the issue raises complex legal and geopolitical questions, particularly regarding the seizure of vessels in international waters and the potential for escalation. Experts note that any expanded enforcement regime would need to carefully balance international maritime law with the objective of tightening sanctions.
For Ukraine, however, the stakes remain high. As the war continues, reducing Russia’s financial capacity has become a central component of Kyiv’s strategy, alongside military and diplomatic efforts.
Zelensky’s appeal in Helsinki highlights the importance of sustained international cooperation in addressing both the economic and security dimensions of the conflict. By pushing for stronger laws and more decisive enforcement, Ukraine is seeking to ensure that sanctions achieve their intended impact.
As European nations consider the proposal, the effectiveness of future measures will likely depend on the level of unity and commitment among governments, as well as their willingness to navigate the legal and operational challenges involved in confronting Russia’s shadow fleet.
