Royal Marines Board Russian Shadow Tanker in Channel
Royal Marine Commandos have boarded a Russian shadow fleet oil tanker.
A Daring Night Mission
The operation took place in the English Channel. It happened in the early hours of Sunday morning. The mission lasted six hours.Marines were joined by National Crime Agency officers. The RAF also provided support. Therefore, it was a large, coordinated effort. The vessel is called the Smyrtos.
The Operation Happened
Russia uses a “shadow fleet” of tankers. These ships evade international sanctions on Russian oil. The shadow fleet includes more than 700 vessels. It carries about 75% of Russia’s sanctioned oil. As a result, it is a critical lifeline for the Kremlin.Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer praised the operation. He said it was “yet another blow to Russia”. He added that the UK will not let Russia hide.
Its Happens Next
The Smyrtos will now be held off the south coast of England. Investigators will continue their work. The vessel sails under a Cameroon flag. It was sanctioned in July 2025. It has since changed its name and flag twice.The MoD said the operation was legal. It took place in international waters. However, it was more than 12 nautical miles from the UK coast. Therefore, the action complied with international law.
A First of Its Kind
This was the first operation of its kind by UK armed forces. It sent a clear message. Russia cannot hide behind its shadow fleet.
