"The UK is threatening to seize a Russia-linked shadow fleet tanker in an escalatory move that could lead to the opening up of a new front against Moscow at a time when the country's oil revenues are tumbling. British defence sources confirmed that military options to capture a rogue ship had been identified in discussions involving Nato allies though a month has gone by since the US-led seizure of a Russian tanker in the Atlantic."
"A joint statement signed by the UK, Germany, France and other Nato countries bordering the Baltic and North seas late last month said all vessels sailing through either region should strictly comply with applicable international law. But despite setting conditions for a seizure, nothing has followed. The Royal Navy could challenge any number of ships under maritime law because they are in fact stateless, said Richard Meade, the editor-in-chief of Lloyd's List, a specialist shipping title."
The UK has identified military options to seize Russia-linked shadow-fleet tankers, raising the possibility of a new front against Moscow amid falling oil revenues. In January, 23 shadow fleet ships using false or fraudulent flags were spotted in the Channel or Baltic Sea. Many vessels are linked to seaborne exports of Russian oil to China, India and Turkey. A joint statement from the UK, Germany, France and other Nato-bordering countries demanded strict compliance with international law, but no seizures have occurred because of escalatory risks. The Royal Navy could lawfully challenge stateless ships, and the Royal Marines expressed readiness. The US recently seized the Marinera after a prolonged pursuit and flag changes.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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