British forces intercepted a tanker from the Russian phantom fleet that was trying to cross the English Channel.

The British forces intercepted a tanker, SMYRTOS, suspected of being part of Russia's phantom fleet, in the English Channel. The operation, conducted over six hours, was supported by aircraft and warships, including the HMS Sutherland frigate. The Ministry of Defence stated that Royal Marine Commandos and specialized officers from the National Crime Agency boarded the vessel, despite Russia's efforts to evade sanctions.

The tanker will be moved and monitored near the southern coast of England. The UK has imposed sanctions on hundreds of vessels suspected of supporting Russia in the war in Ukraine, and Defence Minister Dan Jarvis emphasized the impact of this action on the resources that sustain Russian aggression. Prime Minister Keir Starmer added that the operation is a clear signal to those supporting Putin's war.

Additionally, the UK announced that it will propose new legislation to prevent sabotage of vital underwater cables. This action aligns with the efforts of other European countries to intercept vessels from Russia's phantom fleet, in the context of an intensification of hybrid warfare in the Baltic region.