Keir Starmer has authorized stronger military measures against vessels linked to Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet,” escalating pressure on Moscow’s efforts to bypass Western sanctions.
Under the new directive, Royal Navy units and special forces can inspect, board and even seize suspected tankers within UK territorial waters. Officials say the move marks a shift from passive monitoring to active enforcement.
The “shadow fleet” refers to a network of aging tankers with opaque ownership structures, often changing flags, disabling tracking systems and conducting covert ship-to-ship oil transfers. These vessels are believed to transport a significant share of Russian oil exports despite sanctions imposed after the war in Ukraine.
Analysts see the decision as a major escalation in enforcement strategy, allowing not only inspections but also confiscation and legal action against companies and crews involved.
However, the move carries clear risks. Increased naval activity in busy waterways such as the English Channel could heighten the chance of direct incidents between NATO forces and Russia.
Starmer said the policy aims to strike directly at the Kremlin’s finances, depriving Vladimir Putin of revenues used to sustain the war effort.