DEK: UK armed forces board sanctioned Russian oil tanker, disrupting oil revenue funding Russia's war in Ukraine. CATEGORY: Geopolítica & Guerra KEY_FACTS: - British armed forces intercepted a Russian shadow fleet oil tanker named Smyrtos. - The vessel was sailing under the Cameroon flag and was boarded in the English Channel. - The operation involved Royal Marine Commandos, National Crime Agency officials, Chinook helicopters, a frigate, and a minehunter.
British armed forces successfully intercepted and boarded a sanctioned Russian shadow fleet oil tanker, Smyrtos, in the English Channel on Sunday. According to sources, the operation was carried out by Royal Marine Commandos and National Crime Agency officials, with support from Chinook helicopters and other aircraft, a frigate, and a minehunter. The vessel was sailing under the Cameroon flag.
The operation aimed to disrupt the oil revenue that helps fund Russia's war in Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to the UK for the interception. The UK Ministry of Defence reported that the operation lasted six hours and resulted in the capture of the vessel.
The interception of the Smyrtos marks a significant move by the UK to enforce sanctions on Russia and limit its ability to finance its military activities through oil sales. The British government has been actively working to counter Russia's actions in Ukraine and to support the Ukrainian government.
The Russian shadow fleet refers to a group of vessels that have been used to circumvent international sanctions and continue to trade with Russia. The interception of the Smyrtos is part of a broader effort by Western countries to enforce sanctions and limit Russia's economic activities. Zelenskyy thanks UK for the action.