Russia threatens to take legal action against the UK if it auctions the oil from its ghost fleet-linked tanker

Russia has threatened to take legal action against the United Kingdom if it decides to sell the cargo of the tanker "Smyrtos" (IMO 9389100), which was detained by British authorities on June 14 in the English Channel.

The vessel, previously named "Myrtos" and capable of carrying more than 100,000 tons of crude oil, was intercepted by UK authorities for allegedly belonging to the Russian ghost fleet.

According to various British media, the government may be considering the possibility of auctioning the oil transported by the vessel and using the proceeds to support Ukraine.

In light of this possibility, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that Russia will explore all available legal avenues to respond if the cargo is ultimately sold.

This incident has reopened the debate on the property rights of the cargo, the flagging of vessels, and the actions that countries can take when intercepting sanctioned ships.

Photo: Vessel Finder