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Russia: Shipping

Asked by Mr Gregory CampbellDemocratic Unionist PartyMinistry of DefenceTabled Answered 22 June 2026UIN 10093

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps are being taken with international partners to prevent Russian Shadow Fleet vessels utilising the re opening of the Straits of Hormuz.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones

The UK is working closely with international partners to address the challenge posed by Russia's "shadow fleet", including in key maritime routes such as the Strait of Hormuz. This includes close coordination with Allies to monitor, track and, where appropriate, take action against vessels suspected of breaching UK sanctions or transporting sanctioned oil.

The UK has already taken robust action, including sanctioning over 550 shadow fleet vessels, and working alongside partners to disrupt their activity. Recent operations have demonstrated our ability to act in accordance with international law to enforce sanctions and deter illicit trade. These actions, taken with Allies, have contributed to increased costs and operational constraints on such vessels.

We do not seek escalation, but we will continue to work with international partners to uphold the international rules-based system and take necessary measures to prevent the circumvention of sanctions that fund Russia's illegal war.

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