British marines attacked a Russian tanker in the English Channel: Watch the video (VIDEO)

In a dramatic show of force, British military personnel conducted a surprise boarding operation on a Russian-owned tanker in the English Channel early on June 14, 2026. The vessel, identified as the *Smirtos*, was part of what the UK government refers to as Russia's so-called “shadow fleet,” a network of ships used to circumvent international sanctions imposed on Russian oil exports. According to official statements, the operation took place in international waters, more than 12 nautical miles from the British coastline, and was carried out in full compliance with both domestic and international law.

The operation involved a coordinated effort between the Royal Navy, the National Crime Agency (NCA), and the Royal Air Force (RAF). Military personnel were deployed via helicopter onto the ship's deck using ropes, followed by a thorough inspection of the vessel’s cabins and documentation. The *Smirtos* was then taken under surveillance near the southern coast of England while investigations into its activities continue. The UK Ministry of Defence confirmed that the ship would remain under observation until the inquiry is complete.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the operation in a social media post, stating he had ordered the armed forces to intercept the tanker after it attempted to pass through the Strait of Dover. He emphasized that the successful operation delivered another blow to Russia and served as a warning to those supporting President Vladimir Putin’s war in Ukraine that they could not remain hidden. Starmer described the action as a significant step in disrupting the financial support flowing to the Kremlin through illicit means.

According to reports, the *Smirtos* had sailed under the flag of Cameroon and was anchored near the island of Weymouth in the English Channel. It departed from the Russian port of Ust-Luga on June 5, which is connected to a major oil terminal near Saint Petersburg. The vessel had been sanctioned in July 2025 and had since changed its name twice—from *Mirtos* to *Smirtos*—along with altering its registered flag. These changes suggest attempts to evade detection and enforcement actions by Western nations.

The UK government has previously sanctioned over 500 vessels linked to the Russian shadow fleet, banning them from entering British ports and prohibiting British companies and individuals from providing financial, insurance, or brokerage services to these ships. The operation against the *Smirtos* marks the first time British armed forces have directly intervened in such a manner, signaling a shift in strategy aimed at targeting the economic lifeline of the Russian military machine in Ukraine.

The move comes amid ongoing debates within the UK about defense spending, following a week-long delay in announcing the Defense Investment Plan ahead of the upcoming NATO summit. Opposition leader Kamala Harris praised the bravery of the military personnel involved and expressed support for the government’s stance on Ukraine. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked the UK for taking this crucial step against the Russian oil fleet, urging European countries to take further legal measures to prevent the transport of Russian oil and seize it when possible.

The Russian response to the incident remains unclear, but previous similar operations have been labeled by Moscow as illegal and bordering on international piracy. The UK government has reiterated its commitment to pursuing the shadow fleet with all the strength of international law, aiming to cut off funding for the Russian war effort in Ukraine. As the investigation continues, the world watches closely to see how this bold action will shape future diplomatic and military strategies in the region.