The United Kingdom confirmed on Wednesday that it had supported a US-led operation to seize a Russian-flagged oil tanker in the North Atlantic. The British Ministry of Defence stated that this assistance was provided at Washington's request and was part of the close cooperation between the two allies.
According to British authorities, the UK armed forces provided "pre-planned operational support," including base and logistical support. A British warship participated in the operation, while the Royal Air Force provided aerial surveillance support.
The United States seized the oil tanker on Wednesday after tracking it for more than two weeks across the Atlantic. The vessel, formerly known as Bella-1 and renamed Marinera, was also being escorted by a Russian submarine at the time of the operation, according to information released by Washington.
The British Minister of Defence, John HealeyHe stated that the targeted vessel had a "troubled past" and was linked to networks suspected of circumventing international sanctions imposed on Russia and Iran. He clarified that this operation was part of broader international efforts to enforce these sanctions.
London emphasized that this cooperation illustrated the strength of its strategic relationship with the United States, described as its closest partner in defense and security matters. The Ministry of Defence added that the operation proceeded without major incident and demonstrated the effectiveness of this collaboration on the ground.
British authorities finally insisted that their support had been provided "in full compliance with international law", reaffirming their commitment to combat attempts to circumvent sanctions while respecting international legal rules.
