Recent European Union measures aimed at countering Russia’s “shadow fleet” are facing sharp criticism for lacking legal strength, according to Lloyd’s List. The publication noted on October 23, 2025, that despite Brussels’ plans to give member states more authority to inspect suspicious tankers, the proposed declaration is unlikely to meaningfully curb the transport of Russian oil circumventing international sanctions.
Doubts Over Legal Foundations
High Representative of the EU Kaja Kallas said ministers had discussed a “stronger response,” including expanding inspection powers for vessels linked to the shadow fleet. EU diplomats have begun talks with international organizations on a declaration to reinforce the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, granting signatory states the right to inspect such ships under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. However, experts quoted by Lloyd’s List warned that even boarding a suspicious vessel would not grant sufficient legal grounds for further action. They argue that unless sabotage or plans of sabotage can be proven, detaining ships could expose EU states to accusations of obstructing freedom of navigation.
Risk of Escalation and Legal Challenges
Analysts fear that detaining tankers without solid legal justification could lead Russia to file complaints with the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea. They emphasize that, despite potential bilateral agreements, the EU is unlikely to secure cooperation from flag states most commonly used by the shadow fleet. Moreover, many sanctioned ships rapidly reflag, switching to jurisdictions outside EU agreements — a loophole that undermines enforcement efforts.
Sanctions Expand but Enforcement Remains Weak
On October 23, 2025, the EU approved its 19th sanctions package against Russia, adding another 117 shadow fleet tankers to the blacklist, bringing the total to 558. The package also targets three firms accused of issuing false flag certificates for at least eight sanctioned vessels, according to CFTS. Yet experts cited by Ekonomichna Pravda warn that paperwork alone will not stop ships from operating freely under alternative flags.
Broader Security and Environmental Threats
The so-called shadow fleet — estimated to comprise between 900 and 1,400 vessels — poses far more than an economic challenge. Beyond sanctions evasion, it threatens maritime safety, environmental security, and international law. Many of these ships operate without insurance, maintenance oversight, or functioning tracking systems, raising risks of oil spills and collisions in open waters. Some vessels have even been linked to hybrid operations, including drone launches and surveillance of EU and NATO infrastructure.
The Case for Stronger Coordination
Western nations, experts argue, have three compelling reasons to intensify their response: restoring sanctions pressure, preventing ecological disasters, and maintaining safe navigation. Joint action by the EU, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Norway — including satellite monitoring and sanctions on intermediaries providing services to shadow fleet tankers — could help close existing loopholes. Coordinated restrictions on port access and financial flows remain the most viable path to disrupting this covert network.
