Shipping: Russia
2026-06-23 · Ministry of Defence · 12886 · Official question
Question
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether discussions were held between the UK Government and their French counterparts on potential interdiction of the sanctioned Russian vessel SMYRTOS during its transit of the channel on 24-25 May 2026.
Answer
The UK is in regular discussion with our allies to ensure we are ready and able to take action against the dangers posed by the shadow fleet. The interdiction of the SMYRTOS was conducted in close coordination with the French.