Unite demands Russian jet fuel ban

Workers and union lead the criticism

Unite, Britain’s largest trade union, has condemned the British government for continuing to import Russian jet fuel while publicly declaring solidarity with Ukraine, calling the situation “an absolute disgrace” and demanding an immediate end to all Russian energy imports.

Ministers under fire over ‘double standards’

The union’s fury comes after revelations that British companies have continued purchasing aviation fuel refined from Russian crude oil through intermediary routes, including shipments routed through India and other third countries. Government ministers have repeatedly expressed support for Ukraine since Russia’s invasion, yet UK-based fuel suppliers have maintained commercial relationships with Russian producers.

Aviation industry ties to Moscow

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Workers across Britain stand with Ukraine, yet our own government is lining the pockets of Putin’s regime. This hypocrisy is untenable.” The union represents thousands of workers in the aviation and energy sectors who have expressed outrage at the double standards.

Government defends position

The government has maintained that it has imposed sanctions on Russian oil and that any fuel entering Britain complies with existing regulations. However, critics point to loopholes that allow Russian-origin products to enter the UK when processed in third-party countries, effectively circumventing restrictions.

Growing pressure for tighter sanctions

MPs from multiple parties have joined calls for the government to close these regulatory gaps, with Labour MPs and Conservative backbenchers arguing that Britain’s credibility in supporting Ukraine depends on ending all Russian energy imports. The Unite union has threatened industrial action if the government does not act to sever remaining ties to Russian fuel suppliers.