LONDON The UK government has launched a powerful new sanctions package against Russia, intensifying pressure on the Kremlin amid ongoing war efforts in Ukraine. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Foreign Secretary David Lammy confirmed the move on Monday, describing it as part of a broader push to uphold international security and punish violations of global law.
The latest measures target individuals, shipping firms, and energy companies linked to Russia’s war machine. Notably, the sanctions include:
- Asset freezes and travel bans on five senior directors of Coral Energy Group now operating as 2Rivers Group for allegedly helping Russia evade oil sanctions.
- Sanctions on up to 100 oil tankers identified as part of Russia’s “shadow fleet,” accused of transporting oil in violation of existing restrictions. These vessels are now banned from UK ports and subject to seizure.
- Expanded financial restrictions on firms facilitating Russian energy exports and financing linked to state-run entities.
“These sanctions are designed to disrupt Putin’s war chest and ensure those enabling the Kremlin’s aggression are held accountable,” said Lammy during remarks in London ahead of an EU foreign ministers’ summit. “We stand united with Ukraine, and there will be no safe haven for those backing this illegal war.”
The sanctions follow Russia’s recent rejection of a ceasefire proposal, issued jointly by the UK, France, Germany, Poland, and Ukraine during a high-level diplomatic visit to Kyiv on May 10. The UK had warned that continued hostilities would provoke a harsher international response.
Critically, these sanctions mark the most aggressive action yet by the Starmer government, positioning the UK at the forefront of Europe’s efforts to isolate Moscow and squeeze its economic capabilities.
Industry observers say the sanctions could disrupt global oil shipping routes, with the UK’s crackdown on the shadow fleet expected to impact both compliance and insurance sectors. Russia has repeatedly denied accusations of sanction-busting and called the measures “hostile and illegitimate.”
Prime Minister Starmer defended the move, stating the UK would not tolerate a “return to 20th-century imperialism” in Europe. He reiterated Britain’s commitment to defending democratic sovereignty and providing long-term support for Ukraine.
The new measures build upon previous UK sanctions, which have already targeted over 1,800 individuals and entities connected to Russia’s military-industrial complex.
This action signals that London remains a key player in the West’s united front against Russian aggression and that further pressure may yet be on the horizon.
