UK forces seize Russian shadow fleet tanker in English Channel
Summary
British forces seized a Russian oil tanker named Smyrtos in the English Channel as part of efforts to stop ships helping Russia avoid sanctions. The UK Ministry of Defence said this operation took six hours, and the tanker is now anchored off England’s south coast while being watched for safety. This action aims to reduce Russia’s oil income, which is important for funding its war in Ukraine.Key Facts
- The Russian tanker Smyrtos was seized by British forces in the English Channel.
- The operation lasted six hours and was confirmed by the UK Ministry of Defence.
- The tanker will be held near the south coast of England and monitored for environmental and safety risks.
- The UK and other countries are working to stop Russia’s “shadow fleet,” a group of ships used to avoid sanctions.
- Russia uses oil revenue to help pay for the war in Ukraine.
- The UK has sanctioned over 500 ships involved in sanction evasion.
- Russia’s oil and gas revenues dropped by 24% in 2025 compared to the previous year because of these sanctions.
- President Vladimir Putin called the capture of these vessels “piracy.”
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