US Senate Plans Bill to Expand Sanctions on Russia Shadow Fleet

U.S. Senators Jim Risch and Jeanne Shaheen plan to introduce bipartisan legislation aimed at significantly expanding sanctions against Russia's shadow fleet of oil tankers, which are used to evade Western energy sanctions. The bill, supported by both parties including Trump allies Lindsey Graham and Tom Cotton, targets not only the shadow fleet but also Russian liquefied natural gas projects and the country's defense industry. The shadow fleet consists of hundreds of older tankers operating under various flags with minimal transparency, complicating enforcement efforts. This legislative effort reflects a broader push in Congress to increase economic pressure on Russia amid its war in Ukraine, including proposals to designate Russia as a state sponsor of terrorism for abducting Ukrainian children. Despite international sanctions and efforts by the EU, Australia, and Canada against the shadow fleet, Russia continues to use these vessels to finance military actions. The bill is awaiting further consideration in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and possible approval by President Trump, who has so far been cautious on imposing major sanctions against Russia.