What changed in the UK measures announced on 24 February?

The UK added nearly 300 new listings. These include Transneft, 175 entities tied to the 2Rivers oil network, 48 tankers, nine banks, and firms connected to LNG and nuclear trade. The package expands asset freezes and service bans, tightening controls on shipping, insurance, brokering, and trade finance for Russia-linked energy flows.

How do the sanctions affect the Russian shadow fleet?

Named tankers and service restrictions raise detention, inspection, and insurance risks. Expect tougher checks on AIS gaps, ship-to-ship transfers, and ownership claims. Freight and war risk premiums can widen on suspect routes, while charterers and insurers demand stronger attestations and data trails. Result: slower voyages, higher costs, and more cancellations.

What do Transneft sanctions mean for oil flows?

Targeting Transneft increases pressure on the infrastructure that supports Russian crude and products exports. While pipelines may keep operating, service and financing constraints increase routing and payment friction. Traders, shippers, and insurers will raise compliance thresholds, which can spur short-term volatility in flows and pricing as deals are reworked or dropped.

What should UK investors watch next?

Watch enforcement guidance, partner coordination, and any additions to tanker or intermediary lists. Track freight and insurance premiums, payment timelines, and cargo rerouting. Review exposure to counterparties with Russia links. Maintain liquidity buffers for volatility and check that attestations, bills of lading, and AIS records are complete and verified.

Law and Government

UK Sanctions Russia, February 24: Oil, Banks, Shadow Fleet Hit

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 24, 2026February 24, 2026

The UK Russia sanctions announced on 24 February are the largest to date. The package adds nearly 300 new listings covering Transneft, 175 entities tied to the 2Rivers oil network, 48 tankers, nine banks, and firms connected to LNG and nuclear trade. The goal is to squeeze Moscow’s oil income, reported near the lowest since 2020, and raise costs for opaque shipping. UK investors should expect short-term swings in crude flows, tighter compliance, and knock-on effects across European energy and trade finance.