This shadow fleet has been critical for Moscow in circumventing the G7-led price cap on seaborne oil, allowing Russia to continue generating substantial export revenues even under extensive Western sanctions. The broader sanctions regime has aimed to cut off these energy revenues, which are key to sustaining Russia's war effort in Ukraine. Though Russia's piped gas exports have declined significantly since the start of the war, its seaborne liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments to the European Union have increased. More of the vessels involved in these exports are Russian-built and operate within the shadow fleet, which operates without Western insurers, flag registries, or maritime services. This setup has made enforcement of existing sanctions more difficult. The deadline comes as Russai has been making key gains in the strategic city of Pokrovsk in recent weeks.