British commandos board Russian shadow fleet tanker, Zelensky grateful
South China Morning Post
Last updated: June 15, 2026
British armed forces, for the first time, intercepted a sanctioned Russian oil tanker in the English Channel. This operation aimed to disrupt oil revenue that funds Russia's war in Ukraine.
- The vessel, Smyrtos, flying the Cameroon flag, was boarded by Royal Marine Commandos and National Crime Agency (NCA) officials early Sunday morning. The operation involved support from Chinook helicopters, an aircraft, a frigate, and a minehunter.
- Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated the operation "delivers yet another blow to Russia" and warned those funding the war that they would be found.
- Video released by the government depicted British commandos rappelling onto the tanker, with NCA officials seen inspecting documents.
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed gratitude to Britain for detaining the tanker. Kyiv has been urging allies to strengthen enforcement against the shadow fleet, which it claims finances Russia's war efforts.
- Zelensky called for legislative action in Europe to not only detain tankers and restrict oil shipments but also to confiscate the oil itself, believing this would contribute to peace.
