UK and US seize Russian oil tanker and pledge action against sanctioned ships

The United States, with support from the United Kingdom, seized a Russian-flagged oil tanker that was linked to Venezuela. The UK government says it provided support for the operation and has pledged to take more 'assertive' action against dozens of sanctioned Russian tankers, which it calls a 'shadow fleet,' that continue to navigate key shipping routes like the English Channel.

UK Shadow Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said the government aims to 'tighten the chokehold' on this fleet. The move is part of ongoing efforts by Western nations to enforce sanctions imposed on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine.