Smyrtos is a public figure facing high-stakes security operations tied to sanctions-enforcement in UK-led maritime intercepts, amid the so-called shadow fleet activity.
UK forces have detained the Smyrtos, a vessel linked to Russia’s shadow fleet, in the English Channel. The operation, described as the first UK-led of its kind, is carried out in coordination with France and follows years of sanctions that aim to curb Russia’s oil revenue and fund its war in Ukraine.
The UK has intercepted a Russian shadow fleet vessel in the English Channel. Royal Marine commandos and National Crime Agency officers boarded the oil tanker Smyrtos during a six-hour operation. The vessel will be monitored off the south coast of England as investigations continue. Leaders say the move signals a strong stance against Russia's war in Ukraine.