Smyrtos

The vessel Smyrtos is identified as a Russian shadow fleet oil tanker. It recently gained notoriety when it was intercepted and boarded by British Royal Marine Commandos and National Crime Agency officials in the English Channel. This operation, the first of its kind led by the UK, lasted six hours and resulted in the seizure of the tanker. The Smyrtos was sailing under a Cameroonian flag at the time of the interception. The British government highlighted the operation as a significant blow to Russia, aimed at disrupting oil revenues that help fund the ongoing war in Ukraine. This action underscores the UK's commitment to enforcing sanctions and countering illicit oil trade associated with Russia's military activities.