UK's Response to Russian Shadow Fleet Shows Limited Impact on Vessel Movement
Prime Minister Keir Starmer's recent decision to allow the British military to board Russian 'shadow fleet' ships has not significantly affected the number of these vessels passing through UK waters. Despite the threat issued on March 25, a Reuters analysis indicates that at least 98 Russian vessels, which are subject to UK sanctions, have continued to transit through British waters, maintaining a similar frequency as in previous months. These ships, often with opaque ownership structures, are known to transport oil, grains, and arms, supporting Russia's ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The British Ministry of Defence has not reported any boardings or detentions of these vessels, which contrasts with actions taken by other European countries like France, Belgium, and Sweden, who have detained similar ships. 
