Bangladesh, May 10 -- In a bold move timed to coincide with Russias annual Victory Day celebrations, the British government has announced what it claims is its “largest-ever” package of sanctions against Moscow. The sweeping measures, revealed in a formal statement from Prime Minister Keir Starmers office, target the heart of Russias oil transportation network and attempt to slash energy revenues that continue to fund its operations in Ukraine and beyond.

The centerpiece of the package is the blacklisting of up to 100 oil tankers alleged to belong to Russias so-called “shadow fleet” – a network of older vessels that Western officials claim operates beyond the traditional maritime insurance systems dominated ...