The UK thought about seizing a Russia-linked shadow fleet tanker, British defence sources said. This could open a new front against Moscow as Russia’s oil earnings fall. British military options to capture rogue ships were discussed with NATO allies. This followed the US-led seizure of a Russian tanker in the Atlantic last month. In January, 23 shadow fleet ships with false flags were seen in the Channel or Baltic Sea. Many were linked to Russian oil exports to China, India, and Turkey. NATO countries bordering the Baltic and North seas asked all vessels to follow international law. But no ship was seized. Richard Meade from Lloyd’s List said, "The Royal Navy could challenge any number of ships under maritime law because they are in fact stateless." Still, they held back due to risk of escalation. British Royal Marines were eager to seize a ship but waited for orders. The US seized the Marinera tanker between Scotland and Iceland with British help. It tried to change its flag to avoid capture but failed. Meade said a UK or European operation might provoke a strong Russian response. Moving operations away from the Baltic or Arctic waters could lower risks. In January, France detained the Comoros-flagged tanker Grinch off Spain. But President Macron said the ship had to be released due to French law. UK Defence Secretary John Healey said Britain would host a meeting of Baltic and Nordic countries to discuss military options. Any seized oil could be sold to support Ukraine against Putin’s invasion. Russia produces about 10 million barrels of oil daily. Around 5-6 million barrels travel by sea, mostly to China and India. After sanctions and a price cap on Russian oil, Moscow bought 400 old tankers to create a “shadow fleet.” Gonzalo Saiz Erausquin from the UK’s Royal United Services Institute said these ships are old, poorly kept, and often use false or weak flags. The use of false flags means these ships are legally "stateless" and can be seized. Since November, seven shadow fleet tankers were hit by drones, with Ukraine claiming some attacks. The shadow fleet still operates over 200 vessels. Moscow reflags some ships under the Russian flag to avoid seizures. The mainstream Russian fleet is growing, making up 51% of volumes. Russia’s economy is weaker, with oil and gas revenues down 24% in 2025. These revenues now make up 22% of state income, down from 41% in 2022. The EU may ban maritime services to Russian ships, which would hurt Moscow even more if combined with military actions. This UK stance marks a tougher approach as Western sanctions tighten around Russia’s vital oil exports.