RUSI Maritime Sanctions Taskforce: Insurance and Flag States

RUSI’s Maritime Sanctions Taskforce convened again in May 2025 to examine the evolving threat posed by Russia’s shadow fleet and identify policy initiatives to counter its oil-exporting operations aimed at funding Russia’s military–industrial complex. The Taskforce brings together 60 representatives from government and industry, including major insurers, banks, law firms and maritime data providers.

In the latest meeting, the Taskforce addressed three interrelated themes that form the structure of this report:

• Understanding the role of the insurance sector in maritime sanctions.
• Identifying strategies for enhancing flag state accountability.
• Enhancing the targeting of the network of enablers supporting maritime sanctions evasion.

The report concludes with policy recommendations identified by the Taskforce intended to enhance the implementation and enforcement of maritime sanctions, as well as to improve compliance with international maritime standards.