London Intercepts Russian 'Shadow Fleet' Oil Tanker in English Channel First

British armed forces intercepted a sanctions-busting oil tanker belonging to Russia's "shadow fleet" in the English Channel on Sunday. This marks the first operation of its kind aimed at disrupting oil revenues that help fund Russia's war in Ukraine. Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed that he had directed the armed forces to intercept the tanker attempting to pass through the Strait of Dover. Royal Navy commandos and National Crime Agency officials boarded the vessel, named "Smirtus" and flying the flag of Cameroon, in the early hours of Sunday. The operation was supported by Chinook helicopters, other aircraft, a frigate, and a minehunter, according to media reports. The UK Ministry of Defence stated that the tanker "Smirtus" has been temporarily moved to an anchorage off England's south coast and is being monitored for any environmental or security concerns.