The Australian government has imposed targeted sanctions on 60 vessels linked to Russia’s so-called shadow fleet, mentioning they are operating under “deceptive practices.”
This marks the first time Australia has imposed sanctions against the shadow fleet.
Specifically, the minister for foreign affairs Penny Wong has by legislative instrument designated 60 vessels as sanctioned vessels for Russia in accordance with regulation 8 of the autonomous sanctions regulations 2011.
The 60 vessels sanctioned on Wednesday could be asked to leave Australia, including by a particular route or refused entry into a particular port or place or any port or place in Australia.
A person or entity who owns a sanctioned vessel, or a person who controls a sanctioned vessel, or their authorised representative, may apply in writing to the minister at any time to have the listing revoked.
The application must set out the circumstances relied upon to justify the application.
This announcement was made by the Australian government and the office of Australia’s minister for foreign affairs, Penny Wong.
Foreign minister Penny Wong said in a statement: “These sanctions reinforce Australia’s consistent commitment to ensuring Russia, and those enabling its illegal invasion of Ukraine, face consequences.”
She said the sanctions were introduced alongside similar actions by countries like Canada, the United Kingdom, and the European Union.
The vessels operate under deceptive practices such as flag-hopping, disabling tracking systems, and lacking proper insurance – tactics that enable the illicit trade of Russian oil and other sanctioned goods.
Australia has imposed over 1,400 sanctions in response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
“Russia uses these vessels to circumvent international sanctions and sustain its illegal and immoral war against Ukraine. Australia once again calls on Russia to immediately end this war and withdraw from Ukrainian territory. We remain steadfast in our support for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace for Ukraine. We will continue to take coordinated and decisive action to protect Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and disrupt Russia’s ability to fund its aggression,” the statement reads.
