British Royal Marines, alongside a specialist police unit and air support, have boarded the oil tanker *Smyrtos* in the English Channel. The vessel, previously registered in Cameroon, is part of a fleet of tankers used by Russia to circumvent Western sanctions. The operation indicates a stepped-up effort by the UK to enforce sanctions related to the conflict in Ukraine. Authorities suspect the tanker is involved in illicit trade, attempting to conceal the origin and destination of Russian oil. Further investigations are underway to determine the extent of the vessel’s activities and any potential violations of international law. The interception highlights ongoing concerns about Russia’s attempts to bypass economic restrictions imposed following its invasion of Ukraine. No details regarding any arrests or cargo seizures have been released at this time.