Arabic version: القوات البريطانية تستعد لاعتراض السفن الروسية في المياه الوطنية

British forces are in advanced preparations to board and detain ships in Russia’s so-called shadow fleet, after the prime minister approved military action against the vessels. This fleet, operating without valid national flags, is accused of circumventing sanctions on oil to financially support Russia’s war in Ukraine. According to BBC News, the first operation is expected to occur soon, with legal groundwork laid as early as January.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer emphasized that this initiative aims to cut off funding for “Putin’s war machine” and highlighted the ongoing threat posed by Russia, despite the current focus on the Middle East. The approval for military engagement coincided with the prime minister’s attendance at the Joint Expeditionary Force summit in Finland, where Starmer is also expected to speak.

Royal Navy personnel have supported countries including Finland, Sweden, and Estonia with the monitoring and tracking of shadow fleet vessels in recent weeks. Although no UK military personnel have yet boarded any vessels, specialized military units have completed training for potential operations, which could involve the Special Boat Service and Royal Marines, depending on the expected resistance.

The UK government believes that approximately 75% of Russia’s crude oil is transported by ageing ships, with sanctions imposed on 544 vessels thought to be in the shadow fleet. Military planners are actively utilizing ship-tracking technology to identify and prepare for the interception of these sanctioned vessels as they approach UK waters.

Earlier this year, British armed forces assisted US troops in seizing a tanker accused of violating sanctions by carrying oil for Venezuela, Russia, and Iran. Following this, the UK government began exploring how to lead similar operations. Legal provisions under the Sanctions and Money Laundering Act of 2018 have been identified as a framework for employing military force in these situations.

Starmer pointed out the increasing volatility of global affairs, particularly concerning the impact of the war in the Middle East on oil prices, which could benefit Russia. A Conservative Party spokesperson echoed the importance of preventing sanctioned vessels from entering UK waters but criticized Labour for not adequately supporting armed forces with necessary resources.