shadow tankers

UK Forces Seize Russian Shadow Fleet Tanker in English Channel, Prompting Calls to Arm Vessels

British forces conducted their first-ever seizure of a Russian shadow fleet tanker, the Smyrtos, in the English Channel, arresting an Indian seafarer on suspicion of sanctions offences. The operation has caused other sanctioned tankers to alter course away from the Channel. In response, Russian Senator Dmitry Rogozin suggested equipping shadow fleet tankers with explosives as a deterrent.