Volodymyr Zelenskyy has urged European countries to adopt tougher laws to block Russian “shadow fleet” oil tankers and confiscate their cargo.
Speaking at a meeting of the Joint Expeditionary Force in Helsinki, Zelenskyy called for coordinated legal action across Europe, stressing the need for stronger measures that would allow nations to intercept Russian vessels and seize their oil. He said such steps would weaken Russia’s ability to exert pressure on the continent.
He also encouraged wider implementation of these policies, asking European leaders to support and enforce similar decisions within their own countries.
The “shadow fleet” refers to ships used by Russia to evade Western sanctions imposed after the Russian invasion of Ukraine. These vessels are often ageing, poorly maintained, and operate under unclear ownership with limited insurance coverage.
Zelenskyy commended recent actions by countries such as Denmark, Sweden, and France, which have seized ships suspected to be part of the fleet, describing their efforts as proof that enforcement is both possible and effective.
Recent incidents include the seizure of a tanker in the Mediterranean by the French navy and the detention of the Sea Owl I vessel in Sweden, where its captain was arrested over alleged document falsification.
The United Kingdom has also introduced new powers enabling its military to board and seize sanctioned vessels entering its waters. EU data indicates that nearly 600 ships linked to Russia’s shadow fleet are currently under sanctions.
