A vessel believed to be part of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s clandestine fleet, known as the ‘shadow fleet,’ has been identified navigating through the English Channel shortly after British and US forces intercepted a ship suspected of violating sanctions. The ship, named Tavian, is currently located approximately 20 miles north of Guernsey and is en route to Finland, as per ship tracking information. Tavian, which was sanctioned by the US in 2024 for its involvement in circumventing restrictions on Russian oil trade, was previously observed passing through the Baltic Sea near the German coast last month, marking Russia’s initial attempt on that route.
Following the recent US operation in the North Atlantic involving the seizure of a Russian-flagged tanker linked to funding Russia’s activities in Ukraine, UK officials have expressed full support for such actions. The UK cooperated with the US in the operation, with RAF surveillance aircraft and the naval supply ship RFA Tideforce providing assistance. The US military’s European Command expressed gratitude towards the UK for its steadfast support during the operation.
Douglas Alexander, a member of Keir Starmer’s cabinet, emphasized the importance of international collaboration in combating Russian attempts to evade sanctions and finance conflicts like the one in Ukraine. He highlighted the significance of disrupting the channels that support Russia’s military efforts and stressed the UK’s commitment to aiding in such operations when required. The vessel seized in the recent operation, previously known as Bella 1 and linked to Venezuela, was intercepted between Iceland and Scotland.
Mr. Alexander reiterated that the UK’s national interest lies in preventing the illicit funding of conflicts and terrorism, emphasizing the need to work with allies to counter Russia’s ongoing sanction-busting activities. Authorities are actively seeking ways to cut off the financial resources that fuel Russia’s military actions.