U.S. Treasury Expands Pressure on Iran’s Shadow Fleet and Weapons Procurement Networks
At a Glance Expanding Pressure on Iran’s Maritime and Weapons Networks On February 25, 2026, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated more than 30 individuals, entities, and vessels linked to Iran’s shadow fleet and to networks supporting ballistic missile and advanced conventional weapons production. The action targets two…
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The EU Maritime Services Ban That Didn’t Pass: Implications for Russian Trade
At a Glance A Sanctions Escalation That Stalled The European Union’s proposed maritime services ban on Russia was expected to mark a structural escalation in sanctions enforcement. Instead, EU ministers failed to reach an agreement, delaying the adoption of the bloc’s 20th sanctions package after opposition led by Hungary, with at least one other member…
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Maritime Defense Weekly: Energy Flows and Infrastructure Risk
Week in Focus Russian Diesel Cargo Signaling Arrival in Cuba A Hong Kong-flagged medium-range tanker is signaling arrival in Cuba on March 2 after multiple AIS destination revisions. The vessel initially broadcast Havana, then shifted to “Caribbean Sea,” and later to “Gibraltar for orders,” despite already transiting the strait. Windward’s assessment indicates the tanker likely…
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Russian Diesel Tanker Sails for Cuba as U.S. Order Blocks Oil Imports
A tanker carrying Russian diesel is sailing for Cuba even as tightening U.S. pressure on the island’s fuel supply has forced other shipments to abort voyages or cancel loadings. Vessel Movements, AIS Changes, and Cargo Origin The Hong Kong-flagged medium-range tanker initially broadcast Havana as its destination on February 7, then altered its AIS signal…
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