London, United Kingdom. British armed forces intercepted the sanctioned Russian shadow fleet oil tanker Smyrtos in the Channel on Sunday, marking the first time Britain has led an operation to disrupt oil revenues that Western governments say help fund Russia’s war in Ukraine.
Boarding operation in the Channel
The vessel, sailing under a Cameroon flag, was boarded in the early hours of Sunday by Royal Marine Commandos and National Crime Agency officials. The operation was supported by Chinook helicopters and other aircraft, as well as a frigate and a minehunter.
Detention and investigation
The tanker will be detained and monitored off the south coast of England while investigations continue, according to a government statement. The statement said the operation was conducted in close coordination with France.
Government response
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said in a post on X: “This successful operation delivers yet another blow to Russia and reminds those fuelling Putin’s war in Ukraine that we will not let them hide.”
Policy background
In March, Starmer gave permission for the British military to board and detain Russian ships that Western governments say help Moscow export oil despite Western sanctions.
Starmer is facing a potential leadership challenge and lost his defence secretary last week over a dispute about military spending.
Previous UK role
According to a Reuters analysis, Starmer’s change of stance did not immediately affect the number of sanctioned Russian vessels passing through UK waters, with a similar number transiting before and after the announcement.
Until Sunday, Britain’s role in efforts to stop such vessels had been limited to supporting French and US operations.