British forces conducted a successful operation in the English Channel early Sunday morning, intercepting a sanctioned Russian shadow fleet oil tanker. Prime Minister Keir Starmer hailed the six-hour military mission as a significant blow to Russia and a clear message to those supporting President Vladimir Putin’s actions in Ukraine.
In a groundbreaking initiative led by the UK, Royal Marine Commandos and specialized law enforcement officers from the National Crime Agency boarded the vessel Smyrtos. Video footage released by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) captured the stealthy descent of soldiers from a Chinook helicopter onto the 250-meter long oil tanker in the darkness of the night. The operation, which involved no shots fired or injuries, was also supported by NCA officers.
The detained tanker will be temporarily anchored off the South Coast of England for monitoring of any environmental or safety issues. Aircraft from the Maritime Air Group, including Chinooks, Merlin Mk4, and Wildcat, as well as an RAF P-8 aircraft, and HMS Sutherland and HMS Ledbury, assisted in the operation, according to the MoD.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed gratitude for the UK’s actions, emphasizing the importance of cutting off Russia’s financial resources to limit the ongoing conflict. Cabinet minister Lucy Nandy praised the operation for disrupting the illicit funding of Putin’s war in Ukraine. Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis highlighted the significance of the UK’s role in combating the shadow fleet, noting the impact of sanctions on Russia’s oil and gas revenues.
The successful interception of the Smyrtos marks a significant step in the UK’s efforts to tackle the shadow fleet, with over 500 vessels already sanctioned. The MoD’s data showing a 24% decline in Russia’s oil and gas revenues in 2025 indicates the effectiveness of these measures in curbing illicit activities.