UK Seizes Russian Shadow Fleet Tanker in English Channel

British Forces Seize Russian Oil Tanker in English Channel Operation

The UK Ministry of Defence confirmed that British forces successfully intercepted and seized a Russian oil tanker, Smyrtos, in an operation lasting six hours. The vessel was attempting to transit the English Channel.

According to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the operation is part of efforts to disrupt Russia’s shadow fleet, which is believed to be used to evade international sanctions imposed due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The Ministry of Defence stated that the vessel will be provisionally moved to an anchorage off the South Coast of England and monitored for any environmental or safety concerns.

Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis praised the skill, professionalism, and courage displayed by the Armed Forces personnel involved in the operation. He noted that Russia relies on its shadow fleet to fund its conflict in Ukraine, stating that the interdiction delivers a blow to President Vladimir Putin’s efforts.

This incident follows previous seizures of Russian vessels, including an oil tanker intercepted by French naval forces with UK support last month and another suspected Russian tanker detained in Marseille in March. The UK has imposed sanctions on over 500 vessels linked to Russia, resulting in a decline of 24% in Russia’s oil and gas revenues compared to the previous year.

Source: Al Jazeera