British Forces Intercept Russian Shadow Fleet Oil Tanker in English Channel
British forces have intercepted a Russian oil tanker, a vessel belonging to the so-called “shadow fleet,” as it attempted to navigate the English Channel. This operation marks a significant moment in the ongoing efforts to disrupt Russia’s oil exports, a crucial source of revenue for the Kremlin. The tanker, previously known as Myrtos before a name change to Smyrtos, had also altered its flag of registration multiple times since being sanctioned in July 2025. The ability of British forces to identify and intercept such a vessel, despite its attempts to obscure its identity through name and flag changes, raises questions about the sophisticated methods now employed in maritime interdiction.… Continue reading
Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker