EU adopts new measures against Russian shadow fleet ecosystem and Belarus

The Commission welcomes last December 15’s decision by EU Member States to adopt supplementary sanctions against key components of the Russian shadow fleet value chain, as well as against Belarus.   

These new measures aim at further increasing pressure on Russia and Belarus to reinforce and support the EU’s commitment to securing a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. 

Supplementary sanctions on shadow fleet ecosystem

The EU has identified the shadow fleet as a crucial chokepoint to further constrain Russia’s revenues from seaborne oil exports. Over the past 18 months, the EU has designated more than 550 vessels, predominately oil tankers which do not meet insurance and safety standards. These vessels are subject to a ban on port access and on provision of maritime services, severely disrupting their normal operations. Further vessel designations are being considered.  

Today, the EU decided to impose supplementary sanctions on the shadow fleet ecosystem, the opaque web of enablers and operators underpinning the shadow fleet business. This includes shipowners, brokers, and commercial entities mismanaging the shipping register for some Member States. 

Constraining Russia’s energy revenues has consistently been – and will remain – a top priority for the EU, as it weakens Moscow’s ability to wage its illegal war of aggression against Ukraine.   

New measures against Belarus to tackle hybrid threats  

Additionally, the EU has introduced new criteria for sanctioning individuals or groups from Belarus involved in actions that undermine EU democracy, rule of law, and security. Recent incidents involving the smuggling of meteorological balloons into Lithuania’s airspace, part of a state-sponsored hybrid campaign, underscore this need for action. The EU firmly opposes any threats aimed at undermining the stability and security of its Member States. 

Last December 15’s decision is in response to the European Council’s findings from October 23, 2025. The Council highlighted increased hybrid attacks from Russia and Belarus, including violations of EU airspace. Additionally, on October 29, 2025, the High Representative strongly condemned Belarus for its ongoing provocative actions against the EU and its Member States.

More information: European Commission