Britain sends 'hard power' message to Putin after Atlantic showdown

A senior UK Cabinet minister has warned that Britain and its allies must be prepared to use both hard power and diplomatic influence to tackle growing global threats, particularly Russia’s shadow fleet.

This warning follows the recent seizure of the Russian-flagged tanker Marinera, which UK forces helped intercept in the North Atlantic. The vessel was part of a network of tankers used to bypass sanctions and transport oil, funding Moscow’s military operations.

During a phone call with US President Donald Trump, Sir Keir Starmer emphasized that more action could be taken to protect strategic areas in the North Atlantic and deter an increasingly assertive Russia. Cabinet minister Pat McFadden highlighted that today’s world demands countries demonstrate leadership through both diplomatic measures and the readiness to exert power when necessary.

UK officials have made it clear that stopping Russia’s shadow fleet is a priority. While further operations would require coordination with the United States, the government is committed to tackling sanctions evasion and preventing illicit maritime activities that threaten national and global security.

The shadow fleet refers to vessels with obscure ownership and often outdated equipment, primarily transporting oil and gas while avoiding international regulations. Other countries, including Venezuela and Iran, have also been accused of operating similar ghost fleets.

Experts predict that the UK could take an even more active role in intercepting sanctioned tankers in the coming months. With over 300 large tankers reportedly operating within Russia’s shadow fleet, enforcement of sanctions on these vessels is seen as critical to influencing the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Following the Marinera seizure, allies of Vladimir Putin have issued stern warnings, suggesting that such interventions could provoke severe responses from Moscow. Nevertheless, UK officials remain determined to continue stepping up action against shadow fleet operations in collaboration with international partners.