Turkish tanker owner Palmali has launched a near-$2bn legal action against Russian oil giant Lukoil.

The company, controlled by Azeri tycoon Mubariz Mansimov, said the claim has been lodged at the UK high court, according to Reuters.

Palmali is pursuing Lukoil trading arm Litasco.

“The claim concerns an alleged failure by Litasco to provide contractual quantities of cargo under long-term contract between the companies,” Palmali said.