EU Imposes Tough Sanctions on Russia’s ‘Ghost Fleet’ and Hybrid Attacks

The European Union’s latest round of sanctions on Russia, endorsed on June 24, targets Moscow’s secretive fleet of LNG tankers and addresses escalating hybrid attacks. These measures aim to curb Russia’s strategic use of LNG exports via EU ports, estimated at 4-to-6 billion cubic meters annually, to sustain its economy amidst international sanctions. The EU’s directive includes bans on ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore transfers, as well as re-export operations of LNG within EU territories.

Additionally, new investments aiding Russian LNG projects are prohibited, intensifying pressure on Moscow. The sanctions extend to over 50 entities globally, including those in China, Turkey, and the UAE, accused of evading EU sanctions or providing critical support to Russia. European Foreign Ministers emphasize the necessity to confront Russia’s hybrid tactics, which include cyber-attacks and election meddling, signaling a robust response to Moscow’s destabilizing actions in Europe and its aggression against Ukraine.