The UK government has announced sweeping maritime sanctions targeting Russia’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, delivering a fresh blow to Moscow’s energy exports and sending ripples through the global shipping sector.
Under the new measures, British-linked firms will be barred—from 2026 onwards—from providing shipping, insurance, and other maritime services for Russian LNG movements to third countries. The ban is being phased in next year in coordination with European partners.
Previously, imports of Russian LNG into the UK were banned in 2023; now the country is cutting its services off from facilitating exports. The IndependentUK-registered vessels, insurers and service providers will need to reroute away from any Russian LNG cargo chains — forcing players to weigh compliance risk against potential fees.
Foreign secretary Yvette Cooper framed the ban as part of a wider UK strategy: “Putin is trying to plunge Ukraine into darkness and the cold as winter approaches. These cowardly strikes are not only an attack on Ukraine’s security, but a threat to the UK’s economic security, stability and growth.”
