UK threatens to seize Russia-linked shadow fleet tanker

The UK has warned it may seize a Russia-linked shadow fleet tanker, a step that could open a new front against Moscow as the country’s oil revenues tumble. British defence sources say military options to capture a rogue ship have been identified in talks with Nato allies, and the move comes a month after the US-led seizure of a Russian tanker in the Atlantic.

In January, Lloyd’s List Intelligence spotted 23 shadow fleet ships using false or fraudulent flags in the Channel or Baltic Sea, many linked to Russian oil exports by sea to China, India and Turkey. A joint statement from the UK, Germany, France and other Nato countries bordering the Baltic and North seas said all vessels should "strictly comply with applicable international law", but no seizures followed.

"The Royal Navy could challenge any number of ships under maritime law because they are in fact stateless," said Richard Meade, editor-in-chief of Lloyd’s List.

United Kingdom