UK armed forces seize Russian shadow fleet tanker in Channel

Reports today indicate that the UK has carried out its first UK-led seizure/interdiction of a vessel linked to Russia's so-called "shadow fleet" in the English Channel. According to multiple news organizations, Royal Marine commandos and National Crime Agency officers boarded the oil tanker Smyrtos during a six-hour operation supported by Royal Navy ships, helicopters, and surveillance aircraft. The vessel was subsequently detained off the south coast of England. What is the "shadow fleet"? The term refers to a large network of tankers that Western governments say Russia uses to transport oil while evading sanctions. These vessels often operate through complex ownership structures, flag changes, ship-to-ship transfers, and other methods designed to obscure their activities. Western governments have increasingly targeted these ships as part of efforts to limit revenue flowing to Russia from oil exports.Don’t miss our latest episodes! follow us to stay updates news everyday.