The leader of the Labour Party has issued a warning to Vladimir Putin, stating that the UK Government is closely monitoring Russia’s activities in British waters following the sighting of a suspicious vessel in the Channel.
Anna Turley expressed her appreciation for Keir Starmer’s international efforts, highlighting the recent discovery of an oil tanker named Tavian, which was observed heading towards Finland 20 miles north of Guernsey. There are suspicions that Tavian is linked to Putin’s covert fleet, utilized to circumvent restrictions on Russian oil trade.
In an interview with Sky News, Labour Party chair Ms. Turley emphasized the government’s vigilance in overseeing maritime activities to uphold international law and ensure the safety of citizens amidst concerns about Russia’s actions in the region.
This development occurred shortly after the UK assisted the United States in intercepting a Russian-flagged tanker in the North Atlantic. Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander characterized the seized vessel, Marinera, as part of the clandestine financing supporting Russia’s activities in Ukraine. Collaboration with international partners, including the US, was deemed essential in countering Russian attempts to evade sanctions.
The operation involved RAF surveillance aircraft and the naval supply ship RFA Tideforce, providing support for the mission. Despite no direct British involvement in boarding the vessel, Defence Secretary John Healey confirmed the UK’s commitment to the operation during a parliamentary session.
The vessel, previously known as Bella 1 and reportedly linked to Venezuela, was apprehended in the waters between Iceland and Scotland. Following the successful operation, the US military’s European Command expressed gratitude towards the UK for its unwavering support in the endeavor.
Mr. Alexander underscored the importance of preventing illicit funding that sustains Russia’s military actions, emphasizing the need for collaboration with allies to counteract ongoing attempts to evade sanctions.
Efforts are ongoing to disrupt the financial channels supporting Putin’s military agenda, with authorities in the UK and beyond actively seeking ways to curtail such illicit activities.