U.K. forces intercept a Russian shadow fleet oil tanker in English Channel
NBC News • • general
Key Points:
- British forces intercepted the Russian shadow fleet oil tanker Smyrtos in the English Channel, aiming to disrupt Moscow’s sanctions-evasion network that funds its war in Ukraine.
- The operation involved Royal Marine Commandos and the National Crime Agency, lasted six hours, and was coordinated closely with French authorities; the tanker is now held off England's south coast for investigation.
- The UK has sanctioned nearly 600 shadow fleet vessels, contributing to a 27% drop in Russia’s oil revenues since October 2024, marking the lowest level since the war began.
- French and British naval forces have recently increased enforcement against Russian vessels using false flags or evading sanctions in key shipping lanes like the English Channel and the Mediterranean.
- UK Defense Secretary John Healey resigned over government reluctance to increase military spending amid rising global threats, while Prime Minister Keir Starmer has pledged to boost defense budgets by 2035.