British naval forces intercepted and boarded the Smyrtos, a Russian-linked oil tanker, in the English Channel following a six-hour operation. The vessel is suspected of being part of Russia’s “shadow fleet” used to circumvent Western sanctions imposed after the invasion of Ukraine. Royal Marine commandos, supported by helicopters and naval vessels, conducted the boarding under the cover of darkness. The operation, conducted in coordination with France, represents the first of its kind led by the UK. The Smyrtos will be held off the south coast of England for monitoring, disrupting Russia’s ability to finance its war in Ukraine. Ukrainian officials praised the interception, stating it would diminish Russia’s war resources, while the UK Defence Minister emphasized the operation’s impact on Putin’s aggression. The UK has sanctioned numerous vessels believed to be part of this shadow fleet since 2022.