British special forces are preparing for operations to seize Russian tankers in support of Ukraine.
Britain is discussing the idea of funding military support for Ukraine with oil seized from Russia's “shadow fleet,” The Times reports.
A government source told the publication that this would be a “double blow” – depriving Russia of illegal oil revenues while simultaneously strengthening Ukraine.
Against this backdrop, British special forces are preparing for potential tanker seizures. Authorities have already found legal grounds for such actions under sanctions and anti-money laundering laws.
According to The Times, potential operations could target the tankers Spring Fortune and Range Vale, which are sailing through the English Channel under false flags and carrying Russian oil. Both vessels are involved in oil exports from Russia and have previously been subject to sanctions.
NATO is also tracking several more suspicious tankers heading to Europe. The alliance emphasizes that allies regularly exchange intelligence and coordinate actions to counter threats at sea.
