Australia has for the first time imposed sanctions on Russia's so-called "shadow fleet" of oil tankers, the government said Wednesday.
The new restrictions target 60 vessels, which have also been targeted by sanctions from the United Kingdom, Canada and EU.
"Russia uses these vessels to circumvent international sanctions and sustain its illegal and immoral war against Ukraine," Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said in a statement.
"Operating under deceptive practices, including flag-hopping, disabling tracking systems and operating with inadequate insurance, the shadow fleet enables the illicit trade of Russian oil and other sanctioned goods," it added.
Australia has imposed more than 1,400 sanctions on Russia over the February 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
