Canada expands sanctions on Russia’s shadow fleet and Iran’s military procurement networks

OTTAWA, March 26, 2026 — Canada announced a new round of sanctions against Russia and Iran, widening pressure on Moscow’s oil transport network and on Iranian procurement channels linked to weapons production and transfers. The measures were announced by Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand.

Under the latest Russia measures, Canada added 100 more vessels from Russia’s so-called shadow fleet to its sanctions list. Ottawa said the network, made up largely of oil tankers and related support structures, helps Russia move sanctioned goods and commodities, including crude oil, and preserve oil and gas revenue used to finance its war against Ukraine. Canada said it has now sanctioned more than 600 vessels connected to the shadow fleet.

In a separate move, Canada imposed sanctions on five individuals and four entities under its Iran regulations. The government said those targets are Iranian businesspeople and companies involved in procurement networks that produce and supply sophisticated technology supporting the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ weapons production and transfers. Ottawa said Iran’s transfer of arms, drones and technology to proxy groups and to Russia has fueled conflict, threatened the sovereignty of other states and violated international norms.

The twin announcements underscore Canada’s effort to tighten enforcement against sanctions evasion, curb revenue and procurement streams tied to armed conflict, and coordinate pressure with allies and partners. Canada said the Russia sanctions are intended to constrain Moscow’s war financing while limiting harm to ordinary people, and said the Iran measures reflect Ottawa’s continued push against destabilizing activity and support for international law and human rights.