The British military has intercepted a Russian oil tanker believed to be part of a “shadow fleet” attempting to navigate the English Channel. This marks the first time the UK has intercepted a vessel from this fleet, which is used to circumvent sanctions against Russia. The six-hour operation involved two British frigates, helicopters, and a maritime patrol aircraft, conducted in close coordination with France. Prime Minister Starmer stated the interception delivers another blow to Russia and warns those funding the war in Ukraine. The tanker, named Smyrtos, is now being held off the south coast of England for inspection regarding environmental and safety concerns. British authorities estimate the shadow fleet transports 75% of sanctioned Russian oil, providing significant revenue to the Kremlin to fund its war efforts. The UK has previously tracked nearly 600 tankers associated with this fleet.