UK Threatens Seizure of Russian 'Shadow Fleet' Tankers Amid Escalating Tensions

• The UK is considering military options to seize Russia-linked 'shadow fleet' tankers, discussing with NATO allies.
• This follows a US-led seizure of a Russian tanker and sightings of shadow fleet ships using false flags in European waters.
• NATO countries have urged strict compliance with international maritime law, but no seizures have occurred due to 'escalatory risks'.
• Russia created a 'shadow fleet' of 400 aging tankers to circumvent oil price caps, spending an estimated $15 billion.
• The 'shadow fleet' consists of old, poorly maintained, opaquely owned, and often underinsured ships, posing risks to Europe.