Australia Sanctions 60 Vessels in Russian ‘Shadow Fleet’

The sanctioned vessels use flag-hopping, tracking blackouts, and poor insurance to smuggle banned Russian oil and goods, aiding the Ukraine war effort.

Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong looks on during a federal cabinet meeting in Perth, Australia, on June 3, 2025. Matt Jelonek/Getty Images

Australia has announced targeted sanctions against 60 ships identified as part of Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet”—the first time Canberra has taken action against these vessels.

These ships are allegedly being used to dodge international sanctions and sustain Russia’s military operations in Ukraine.