UK forces intercept sanctioned Russian shadow fleet oil tanker in English Channel
British forces intercepted and detained the sanctioned oil tanker Smyrtos, linked to Russia's shadow fleet, in the English Channel. This operation, described as the first U.K.-led action of its kind, was welcomed by Ukraine's Foreign Minister as a blow to Russia's war machine. Royal Marine Commandos boarded the Cameroon-flagged vessel, which had departed from Russia's Ust-Luga port. The U.K. has sanctioned hundreds of vessels suspected of bypassing Western embargoes on Russian oil since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The operation, supported by various helicopters and naval vessels, aims to curb Russia's ability to fund its conflict.
Key Points
- British forces intercepted and detained the oil tanker Smyrtos in the English Channel.
- The vessel is linked to Russia's "shadow fleet," which bypasses Western sanctions on oil.
- Ukraine's Foreign Minister welcomed the operation, calling Russia's shadow fleet a "tool of war."
- The U.K. has sanctioned hundreds of such vessels since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
- The operation involved Royal Marine Commandos, helicopters (Chinook, Merlin Mk4, Wildcat), and naval vessels (HMS Sutherland, HMS Ledbury).
Exam Facts
- Vessel intercepted: Smyrtos.
- Location: English Channel.
- Ukraine's Foreign Minister: Andriy Sybiga.
- U.K. Defence Minister: Dan Jarvis.
- Smyrtos sailed under the Cameroon flag from Ust-Luga, Russia.
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