In a written question, Lord West of Spithead asked why Maritime Counter-Terrorism forces were not being used to stop vessels linked to Russia’s shadow fleet when transiting the Channel or other waters close to the UK.
Responding on behalf of the Ministry of Defence, Defence Minister Lord Coaker did not directly address the use of specialist boarding forces, instead emphasising broader efforts to counter sanctions evasion and illegal maritime activity.
He said the UK was “committed to countering the Russian Shadow Fleet”, describing it as “a web of rising shadow activity that fuels and finances nefarious activity across the globe” and supports Russia’s war in Ukraine.
The minister stated that the UK had already sanctioned more than 500 vessels and was working “in concert with our allies and partners” to intensify action against sanctions-busting activity, while also operating within the framework of international maritime law.
However, the response did not explain why Maritime Counter-Terrorism forces are not currently being used for interdiction operations, nor did it rule out their use in future. Instead, Lord Coaker said the government would use “the range of tools at our disposal” to crack down on shadow fleet activity, while upholding the international law of the sea.
If trump said this, it would be 24/7 headlines on the BBC.