U.S. plans to tighten sanctions on Russia's shadow fleet

Reuters reported the information.

According to the report, the main focus will be on tankers transporting Russian oil sold above the Western price cap of $60 per barrel.

The outlet noted that Washington is seeking to ramp up economic pressure on Moscow before January 20, when President-elect Donald Trump takes office, as his future stance on sanctions remains uncertain.

For the time being, Russia is employing a so-called shadow fleet of older ships to bypass the restrictions. Many of these vessels are less safe and can cause oil spills. 

“It is going to be a big package,” one of the sources said. 

Another source said that the sanctions could include both restrictions on tankers and measures against those involved in sales at prices above the upper limit.

• On December 24, WP reported that the current U.S. President Joe Biden was considering imposing new sanctions on Russia's energy sector in his last weeks in office.