Senators Propose Seizing Vessels Moving Sanctioned Russian Oil
Sens. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., and Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., introduced a resolution Dec. 17 urging the Trump administration to seize “shadow fleet” vessels that transport sanctioned Russian oil.
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The resolution says that Russia’s shadow fleet consists of at least 561 vessels and carries 60% to 80% of the country’s oil exports, which help fund Russia's war against Ukraine. It notes that the Treasury Department designated major Russian energy companies Rosneft and Lukoil in October (see 2510220050).
“Without a shadow fleet of oil tankers willing to illegally transport cheap sanctioned Russian oil, Putin’s war machine would grind to a halt,” Graham said. “Seize the ships. Help stop the war.”
The resolution was referred to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.