UK forces board sanctioned Russian shadow fleet oil tanker
The U.K.'s Ministry of Defence says the SMYRTOS was in the English Channel and will be held off the south coast during investigations.
TL;DR
- British armed forces intercepted a Russian shadow fleet oil tanker, SMYRTOS, in the English Channel.
- The operation was led by the U.K. and involved Royal Marine Commandos and law enforcement officers.
- Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated the action was a blow to Russia and those supporting the war in Ukraine.
- The vessel will be held off the U.K.'s south coast during investigations.
- The U.K. has sanctioned over 500 vessels as part of its efforts against the shadow fleet.
- European countries are increasing scrutiny of ships transporting Russian oil in violation of sanctions.
- Russia has condemned the EU's decision to authorize inspections of ships suspected of being part of the shadow fleet.
- Russia's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman called the term 'shadow fleet' a political fabrication.