The UK has blocked a key player in the shadow oil trade of the Russian Federation - Media.

The United Kingdom is imposing sanctions on the company that traded Russian oil

On Tuesday, the United Kingdom announced the introduction of sanctions against the company 2Rivers, which was a key intermediary in the Russian oil market. This company is based in Dubai and is owned by a group of entrepreneurs from Azerbaijan. The decision prohibits British companies and citizens from using the assets of this company or conducting transactions with its property.

The sanctions list also includes the company Coral Energy, which was previously known as 2Rivers. The company decided to change its name to avoid association with Russian oil. Coral Energy had previously traded oil from Russia but stated that it ceased this activity at the end of 2022.

The office of Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized that these companies were key participants in organizing Russian oil trade, and the sanctions aim to limit 'oil revenues that are so necessary for Putin for his illegal war.'

A spokesperson for 2Rivers stated that they will challenge the sanctions legally and diplomatically. She noted that the actions of the United Kingdom do not take into account recent changes in the structure, leadership, and activities of the company, which has completely abandoned trading in Russian oil.

It is worth noting that the United Kingdom is an important center for financial and legal services that cater to the oil industry. Sanctions may restrict 2Rivers' access to the Western financial system, both in the UK and beyond.

These new sanctions were introduced shortly after the European Union also announced restrictions against dozens of vessels, companies, and individuals accused of financing, supporting, or profiting from the war in Ukraine.