UK sanctions Russian oil pipeline giant on fourth anniversary of Ukraine war

On the day marking the fourth anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Western nations announced a new round of sanctions targeting the Kremlin's energy sector. The United Kingdom imposed nearly 300 new restrictions, targeting the state-owned oil giant Transneft and a network of trading intermediaries referred to as '2Rivers'. The goal is to further limit the revenue that Moscow allocates to funding the war. Concurrently, U.S. senators from the Democratic Party criticized the administration of former President Donald Trump for its alleged passivity in using sanctions to pressure Russia. On February 24, 2022, Russian troops launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, triggering the most severe conventional conflict in Europe since World War II. In response, the West imposed unprecedented sanctions, including an embargo and a price cap on Russian oil, forcing the Kremlin to radically restructure its export routes. Despite these restrictions, the latest data shows that the effectiveness of sanctions in limiting volume is limited. A report by the independent Finnish center CREA indicates that in 2025, Russia exported 6% more oil than in the year preceding the war (2021). To compensate for the loss of European markets, Moscow significantly increased deliveries to Asia, primarily to China, which replaced India as the largest buyer. However, transportation over such distances is more expensive and riskier.Russian oil exports relative to 2021 level: 2021: 100, 2025: 106 A key factor is the decline in prices and revenues. The operation of the price cap forced Russia to offer large discounts to partners, drastically reducing budget revenues from commodity exports, despite maintaining high volume. „Four years into war, Russia's energy revenues drop but oil keeps flowing” — Reuters Russia is also compensating for losses in pipeline transport with increased maritime shipments, utilizing, among other things, giant VLCC tankers for ship-to-ship transfers on the high seas. Simultaneously, oil infrastructure remains a target of attacks. Following a drone strike on a key pumping station on Russian territory, Transneft temporarily reduced oil intake into the pipeline system, which – according to sources – may affect short-term supplies. 6% — increase in Russian oil exports in 2025 relative to 2021 A separate, broad report is dedicated to the state of European security. The document points to serious defense gaps on the continent, including ammunition shortages and an outdated industrial base, whose modernization and increased production capacity require time. Although defense spending in Europe has been systematically rising since the start of the war, experts emphasize that financial outlays alone are insufficient without deeper cooperation and integration among NATO member states in the areas of procurement and arms production. Meanwhile, Russia, despite sanctions, has shifted its economy to a war footing, posing a lasting challenge.