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Shipping: Russia

Asked by Ben Obese-JectyConservativeMinistry of DefenceTabled Answered 2 July 2026UIN 12886

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether discussions were held between the UK Government and their French counterparts on potential interdiction of the sanctioned Russian vessel SMYRTOS during its transit of the channel on 24-25 May 2026.

Answered by Louise Sandher-Jones

The UK is in regular discussion with our allies to ensure we are ready and able to take action against the dangers posed by the shadow fleet. The interdiction of the SMYRTOS was conducted in close coordination with the French.

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