UK sanctions Slavneft, targeting all 10 major Russian oil producers

The UK government announced sanctions on Russian oil producer Slavneft on November 12, saying the move brought all 10 of Russia’s major oil producers under British sanctions. The package also targets energy and trading businesses, coal firms and vessels linked to Russian oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office designated PJSC Oil and Gas Company Slavneft. The government notice includes an asset freeze and restrictions on trust services, director disqualification and transport. The measures also cover Rosneft’s Vostok Oil project, an Arctic development, and other energy-related entities.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said the sanctions were intended to reduce Russian energy income and increase pressure on Moscow during peace talks on Ukraine. The announcement came as European leaders met in Dublin. The UK government said the designation completed its coverage of Russia’s 10 major oil producers; it did not name the ten companies in the announcement.

The package extends beyond producers to vessels associated with transporting Russian oil and LNG. The government said the measures are intended to limit the revenue available to Russia to...