British forces have intercepted a Russian “shadow fleet” oil tanker in the English Channel for the first time, in what the government described as a major operation aimed at disrupting Moscow’s ability to fund its war in Ukraine.

The interception is the first of its kind, with forces using helicopters to take control of the Smyrtos.

British armed forces intercepted the Russian oil tanker SMYRTOS in the English Channel, boarding the vessel with Royal Marines and NCA officers. The ship is being held and…