UK avoids seizing Russian tankers over financial concerns — The Times
Photo: UK is merely assisting in operations to seize Russian tankers (Getty Images)
The British Royal Navy has not detained a single Russian oil tanker subject to sanctions. The reason was concern that mooring and servicing the vessels could cost tens of millions of pounds, according to The Times.
In March, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer promised to pursue Russian tankers sailing under false flags. He said that special forces and officers from the National Crime Agency could be deployed aboard these vessels.
However, no operations have been carried out due to a dispute within the government over where the vessels should be stationed and which agency would pay for them. The Ministry of Transport is being blamed for the delay.
The agency reports that authorities have turned their attention to the case of the Panamanian vessel MV Matthew, which was seized by Irish authorities in September 2023.
The ship was carrying over 2.2 tons of cocaine worth 157 million euros. But what is more important is that maintenance, security, and mooring costs for the vessel have already exceeded 10 million pounds.
Earlier, British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood expressed concern that the seizure of tankers could allow Russian mercenaries to seek asylum in the UK.
The Times notes that in early April, a tanker from the shadow fleet passed through the English Channel escorted by a Russian frigate. The following day, three more tankers subject to sanctions passed through the English Channel.
However, claims have emerged that the British Navy is refraining from seizing the vessels after receiving legal advice from Lord Hermer, the Attorney General.
Until now, the UK has played only a supporting role in operations to seize Russian tankers at sea.
The Times adds that Russia’s shadow fleet consists of about 700 vessels, which transport approximately 40% of all Russian oil exports. As of today, London has imposed sanctions against 544 vessels in the Russian shadow fleet.
Fight against Russian tankers
The United Kingdom is not alone in being reluctant to seize ships. Estonia recently officially announced its refusal to detain vessels of the Russian shadow fleet in its waters. But the reason was the critically high risk of direct military confrontation with Russia.
Nevertheless, some countries are still taking action against these vessels. Recently, media reports indicated that France, as part of its efforts to combat the Russian shadow fleet, intends to double prison terms and fines for ships sailing under false flags or ignoring orders to stop.
