Wellington Expands Crackdown on Shadow Fleet and Oil Trade Links
New Zealand has intensified its measures against Russia’s oil sector by targeting vessels and international actors that support the country’s wartime economy. The announcement was made by Foreign Minister Winston Peters while meeting Nordic Foreign Ministers in Stockholm.
Mr Peters revealed that 65 vessels linked to Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet” have been sanctioned. These ships are known for transporting Russian oil—one of the major financial sources for funding the ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
Targeting the Network Behind Russia’s Oil Revenue
Alongside the vessel sanctions, New Zealand also imposed restrictions on individuals and entities from Belarus, Iran, and North Korea who play roles in refining, transporting, or facilitating payments for Russian oil. According to the Minister, these networks collectively enable Russia to evade sanctions and sustain its war machine.
“By tightening controls over the oil supply chain, New Zealand is contributing to global efforts to reduce the financial flow supporting Russia’s aggression,” Mr Peters noted during the meeting. He added that such actions aim to pressure Moscow into genuine peace negotiations.
Part of a Wider Sanctions Strategy
Since the Russia Sanctions Act came into force in March 2022, New Zealand has imposed penalties on more than 1,900 individuals, companies, and vessels. The latest step marks the 33rd round of sanctions against Russia under the Act, reflecting Wellington’s continued alignment with international partners opposing the invasion of Ukraine.
The comprehensive list of New Zealand’s restrictions now includes high-level Russian officials, oligarchs, financial institutions, and entities linked to the country’s defense and energy sectors. Senior members of Russia’s parliament, ministers, governors, and figures within the military-industrial complex are also under sanction.
Wider Measures Beyond Sanctions
New Zealand has reinforced its stance through a range of trade and diplomatic measures:
- Imposed a 35% tariff on all Russian imports.
- Banned the import of Russian oil, gas, coal, and gold.
- Prohibited exports of oil exploration and production equipment to Russia.
- Extended the export ban to more than 700 industrial products of strategic value.
- Implemented a price cap on Russian-origin oil to restrict export revenue.
- Suspended bilateral foreign ministry consultations with Moscow.
- Joined international initiatives to combat the use of “shadow fleets” that violate maritime safety and insurance norms.
Comprehensive Response to Russia’s Invasion
In response to the full-scale invasion launched in February 2022, New Zealand has provided over $168 million in assistance to Ukraine. This includes $110.3 million for military training and logistical support, humanitarian relief worth $39.9 million, and additional funding for reconstruction and human rights efforts.
New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) personnel have been deployed in Europe to aid training programs for Ukrainian troops, while humanitarian assistance continues to reach displaced and conflict-affected communities both within Ukraine and across neighbouring countries.
Standing with International Partners
New Zealand’s latest sanctions demonstrate its ongoing collaboration with allies to isolate Russia economically and diplomatically. By expanding restrictions to associated states and transport networks, the country reinforces its commitment to international law, peace, and global security.
Foreign Minister Peters emphasised that New Zealand’s approach is about upholding principles of sovereignty and accountability. “Our actions show that even nations far from the conflict can play a part in defending international norms,” he stated.
Background on Sanctions
Key individuals and groups targeted under New Zealand’s sanctions include President Vladimir Putin, senior Russian government officials, members of both chambers of parliament, state-owned enterprises, militia groups, and foreign suppliers of military equipment from Iran and North Korea. The country has also banned all Russian and Belarusian government and military aircraft and vessels from entering New Zealand waters and airspace.
Through these sustained measures, New Zealand continues to send a clear signal of its opposition to Russia’s aggression and its support for Ukraine’s sovereignty.