British Forces Intercept Tanker from Russia's Shadow Fleet Attempting to Cross English Channel

British forces intercepted a tanker associated with Russia's "shadow fleet" as it attempted to transit the English Channel, according to a statement from the UK Ministry of Defence.

The operation to board and detain the vessel, identified as SMYRTOS, involved Royal Navy commandos and specially trained officers from the National Crime Agency (NCA). The ship is currently being held offshore the south coast of England while investigations continue. The UK authorities confirmed that the law enforcement actions within British territorial waters were conducted in accordance with domestic and international law.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer declared that he personally ordered the armed forces to intercept the tanker. He stated, "This successful operation strikes another blow against Russia and reminds those who fuel Putin's war in Ukraine that we will not let them get away with it."

The incident highlights ongoing efforts to disrupt illicit maritime activities and pressure Russia's war effort in Ukraine through sanctions and interdiction operations.

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This successful operation strikes another blow against Russia and reminds those who fuel Putin's war in Ukraine that we will not let them get away with it.