The Commission welcomes todays 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 EUs 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 Russias 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 Russias energy revenues has consistently been - and will remain - a top priority for the EU, as it weakens Moscows 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 Lithuanias 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.
Todays decision is in response to the European Councils 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.
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