Ukraine’s Intelligence Service Identifies 26 Vessels Used by Russia to Transport Oil, LNG and Stolen Ukrainian Grain

President Volodymyr Zelensky issued new sanctions on August 14, targeting 11 Russian citizens, 13 vessels, and 28 legal entities involved in exporting grain from Russian-occupied Ukrainian territories. Eight of the vessels are registered in Russia, while the remainder fly under foreign flags such as Panama, Belize, and St. Kitts and Nevis.

The sanctioned individuals and entities face asset freezes, trade restrictions, contract suspensions, entry bans, and other penalties. Their vessels are also barred from territorial seas, internal waters, and ports. Ukraine's military intelligence agency (HUR) released data on these vessels, including the Russian bulk carrier Irtysh, which loaded over 32,800 metric tons of grain in Sevastopol during January and April.

Bellingcat documented the Irtysh's efforts to conceal its movements by disabling its Automatic Identification System. Presidential sanctions commissioner Vladyslav Vlasiuk emphasized that the illegal export of Ukrainian grain must face consequences for all involved, including companies, owners, captains, and vessels. Zelensky vowed further measures against Russia's war machine and financial networks, urging international partners to impose similar sanctions.