The United Kingdom carried out one of its boldest operations since the start of the war in Ukraine by intercepting and taking control of a tanker belonging to the so-called "ghost fleet" of Russia, a network of vessels used to transport oil and evade sanctions imposed by the West. The action was executed by British Royal Navy commandos in the English Channel and was supported by air, naval, and specialized agents.
The intercepted vessel, identified as Smyrtos, was carrying approximately 705,000 barrels of Russian crude oil and was sailing under the flag of Cameroon. According to British authorities, the vessel was part of the export system that allows Moscow to continue generating revenue despite the international restrictions imposed after the invasion of Ukraine.
The operation lasted approximately six hours. Royal Marines commandos descended from helicopters onto the deck of the tanker while other naval assets secured the perimeter. Personnel from the National Crime Agency and surveillance aircraft from the Royal Air Force also participated. There was no significant resistance from the crew.
The new UK Secretary of Defense, Dan Jarvis, stated that the action demonstrates Britain's determination to pursue those who help sustain the Kremlin's war machine.
