British forces seized an oil tanker linked to Russia near the Isle of Wight. UK officials now expect Russia to respond, prompting British ship owners to be more careful.
British officials believe Russia may try to respond after Royal Marines recently seized an oil tanker. This tanker, named Smyrtos, was carrying Russian oil.
Because of this, UK ship owners are now more careful. They will remain vigilant until tensions with Moscow ease.
The Smyrtos was seized early on Sunday, about 25 miles south of the Isle of Wight. It was captured because it was falsely registered, breaking UK rules against Russia.
No official warning has been sent to British captains or ship owners. However, the UK Chamber of Shipping understands there is a risk of Russia responding.
This seizure is the first time British forces have taken a Russia-linked oil tanker. It aims to put pressure on Russia's 'shadow fleet' of vessels, which help fund the ongoing war in Ukraine.
