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Russian Shadow Fleet
15 June 2026
Lead MP
Dan Jarvis
Debate Type
Ministerial Statement
Tags
UkraineEconomyTaxationNorthern IrelandParliamentary Procedure
Other Contributors: 35
At a Glance
Dan Jarvis raised concerns about russian shadow fleet in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Government Statement
With permission, Madam Deputy Speaker, Dan Jarvis, newly appointed Secretary of State for Defence, updates the House on UK military operations against the Russian shadow fleet. He acknowledges the previous Secretary of State's contributions and expresses his duty to support Ukraine in its fight against Russia. Specifically, he details a recent operation where Royal Marines seized control of an oil tanker suspected of using a false flag to transport sanctioned Russian oil, with minimal resistance and extensive inter-agency cooperation. This action, one among several this year, demonstrates the UK's commitment to enforcing sanctions against Russian assets funding Putin’s war machine in Ukraine. Jarvis confirms that over 550 vessels have been sanctioned by the UK, leading nearly 200 to anchor due to such actions. He emphasises that the UK will continue to use every measure available to prevent the trade of sanctioned goods that funds Russia's illegal war and reiterates the UK’s unwavering support for Ukraine.
James Cartlidge
Con
South Suffolk
Question
In response to the seizure of the Russian shadow fleet vessel, MP James Cartlidge commends the action but expresses concerns over delays since the policy's announcement in March. He highlights that no interdictions occurred for nearly three months and asks what changed to prompt this recent operation.
Minister reply
Dan Jarvis acknowledges the question about the timing of operations against Russian shadow fleet vessels, stating that the UK has been closely monitoring such activities. The recent operation was part of a broader strategy to enforce sanctions and deter Russia from illegal oil trade.
James Cartlidge
Con
South Suffolk
Question
Cartlidge raises concerns over the lack of funding for UK defence and criticises the chaos surrounding the defence investment plan, which led to multiple resignations due to insufficient funds. He asks if the Prime Minister is refusing more money for this plan.
Minister reply
Minister Jarvis addresses the issue of defence funding, emphasising the need for a balanced approach that ensures national security without compromising long-term financial stability.
James Cartlidge
Con
South Suffolk
Question
Cartlidge questions the Government's stance on the Northern Ireland Troubles Bill and urges the Secretary of State to work with Labour in finding welfare savings to fund defence.
Minister reply
The Minister expresses willingness to discuss the Northern Ireland Troubles Bill and acknowledges the need for cross-party collaboration to secure adequate funding for UK defence.
James Cartlidge
Con
South Suffolk
Question
Welcomes the new Defence Secretary and highlights support for the seizure of the Russian vessel. However, raises concern about delays in action since March's announcement by the Prime Minister allowing boarding of sanctioned vessels crossing UK territorial waters. Criticises the defence investment plan's inadequate funding which undermines deterrence efforts.
Minister reply
Acknowledges the delay in actions and emphasises that the operation was a result of weeks of military planning, not immediate reaction to recent events. Defends the government’s increased spending on defence compared to previous years but agrees to publish the DIP before the NATO summit as requested.
Question
Welcomes the new Defence Secretary and praises British personnel involved in the channel operation. Asks for a total-Government approach to deliver NATO article 3, ensuring preparedness against Russian threats.
Minister reply
Agrees on the need for a whole-of-Government approach to ensure preparedness against Russian threats and pledges to work with colleagues across Government to achieve this.
James MacCleary
Lib Dem
Wantage
Question
Thanked the Secretary of State for advance sight of his statement and joined others in welcoming him to his new role. Praised the Royal Marines' bravery in denying Russian fossil fuel profits, stating that at least six ships altered course following the interdiction of the Smyrtos. Asked if the Government will commit to stopping more shadow fleet vessels beyond this one-off incident and seize and sell sanctioned oil transported by future interdictions. Called for an end-date on sanctions waivers for diesel and fuel products refined by Russian crude, urging the Secretary of State to work across government to ban all UK maritime services for exporting Russian oil.
Minister reply
Grateful for constructive comments from the hon. Gentleman; committed to working closely with him and his Liberal Democrat colleagues on these matters. Noted ongoing criminal investigation as reason not to disclose specifics about the seized vessel's cargo. Assured the hon. Gentleman that UK will work across government, including Treasury, to address concerns raised.
Lloyd Hatton
Con
Weymouth
Question
Paid tribute to armed forces and NCA for intercepting Russian oil tanker off coast of Weymouth and Portland. Inquired about environmental and public safety risks associated with the operation, urging Secretary of State to maintain current posture and exploit opportunities to degrade Putin’s war machine.
Minister reply
Grateful for comments from my hon. Friend; assurances given regarding potential risks and availability of specialist teams if needed. Suggested briefing by Minister for Armed Forces on these matters.
Julian Lewis
Con
New Forest East
Question
Wished the new Secretary of State luck in his post and questioned the symbolism of Chancellor’s presence on Front Bench. Raised concerns about possibility of Russia retaliating with warships to escort shadow fleet vessels, given Ukraine's past success against Russian ships.
Minister reply
Acknowledged right hon. Gentleman's sage counsel; referenced longstanding discussions about threat of retaliation. Assured that UK will stand together in support of Ukraine and use all available tools to counter Russia.
Alex Sobel
Lab
Leeds North West
Question
Asked FCDO Minister Stephen Doughty about remaining licences for Russian fossil fuels, noting concern over another six months of profiteering. Mentioned open strait of Hormuz as potential factor in earlier licence revocation.
Minister reply
Acknowledged point made by hon. Friend regarding FCDO licences; assurances given from Minister for Trade that these matters will be closely reviewed.
Richard Foord
Con
Mid Worcestershire
Question
Congratulated Secretary of State on appointment, referencing his experience as Security Minister. Praised government commitment to ban imports of diesel and jet fuel made from Russian oil by 1 January; asked if licence revocation could occur before year-end.
Minister reply
Acknowledged important point raised by hon. Gentleman; assurances given from Trade Minister that these matters will be closely reviewed.
Anneliese Dodds
Lab
Oxford East
Question
Commended brave forces for their action, welcoming Secretary of State to his place. Raised concerns about Russia’s shadow influencing operations and urged Secretary of State to work with colleagues across government.
Minister reply
Acknowledged importance of point made by my right hon. Friend; committed to prosecuting Russia’s proxies and countering illegal activity.
Andrew Murrison
Con
South West Wiltshire
Question
Congratulated Secretary of State on appointment, praising Royal Marines' operation. Raised concern about Northern Ireland Troubles Bill and urged Secretary of State to ensure its cancellation.
Minister reply
Acknowledged concerns raised by right hon. Gentleman; committed to working closely with colleagues in other Departments including the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.
Question
I thank the Secretary of State for his update and welcome him to his place. I join him in paying tribute to the exceptional bravery and skill of those who carried out the recent operation on the shadow fleet. Does he agree that it is vital that we continue to squeeze the Russian economy in every way we can, including many more operations of that kind against the shadow fleet, so that we can ultimately support Ukraine in a successful outcome in resisting Putin’s illegal war?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend is exactly right to raise those points in the way he does. I am joined on the Front Bench by the Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, my hon. Friend the Member for Cardiff South and Penarth (Stephen Doughty), who takes such matters incredibly seriously, and there is huge activity right across Government. It is also important to highlight the continued support for Ukraine, not least the UK’s largest ever drone package for Ukraine, which delivered 120,000 drones this year. So, yes, we must squeeze the Russian economy, and support our Ukrainian partners to ensure that they can stay in the fight and win it.
Question
On Saturday night, I heard the unmistakeable sound of Chinook helicopters passing over my home in Dorset, en route to intercept the Russian tanker. Whether it is a shadow fleet funding the war against Ukraine, spy ships scanning our seabed, or political interference in our democracy—including the former Reform leader in Wales taking bribes—it is clear that Russia is upping its game. Last week I asked about energy, food and information security, so what assurance can the new Secretary of State give the House about how this situation is being addressed to keep us all safe at home?
Minister reply
The sound that the hon. Member described at the beginning of her remarks is one that I am very familiar with—it is one that still, to this day, makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. I know she has a long-standing interest in these matters, and she raised an important point. I give her the assurance that we will work collaboratively across Government to maximise the deterrent effect on Russia and its illegal activities. Wherever we can seek to do more to prosecute those activities, we will absolutely do so.
Question
I welcome the Secretary of State to his place. Operations such as this demonstrate an incredible level of planning, co-ordination and professionalism across our armed forces, police, Border Force, and wider Government, so I pay tribute to and thank all those involved. For a city like Portsmouth, which has supported generations of those who serve, this is a reminder of the importance of expertise. Will the Secretary of State confirm that all Departments work closely together and will continue to do so, in a safe, legal and effective operation? Will he also confirm that the operation was conducted in a way that ensured the safety of UK citizens and our military personnel?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend is right to draw attention to the meticulous planning that these complex military operations involve. There are lots of moving parts. Risk is carried by those brave enough to undertake such operations, and we owe them a huge debt of gratitude. The other huge debt of gratitude that we owe is to the family members of those who step forward, of whom I know my hon. Friend is proudly one.
Alec Shelbrooke
Con
Elmet and Rothwell
Question
May I offer my congratulations to the right hon. and gallant Gentleman? He is a good fit for the role, and I hope that he will listen to those across the House and try to work constructively. In that spirit, this incredible operation was reliant on the Royal Navy and Royal Marines. Earlier today, I asked the Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry about whether the plans in place for the Type 26s, Type 31s and Type 83s would remain as outlined. I am really looking for a yes or no answer, given that there are shipyards wondering whether they can keep their current workforce because they are relying on the DIP but it is not there. I ask the Secretary of State directly: are the plans in place for ships for the Royal Navy going to remain?
Minister reply
I am genuinely grateful to the right hon. Gentleman for his comments, because he has spoken with real authority on these matters for many years. I hope that he understands that at this particular moment—as we seek to ensure that the DIP does precisely what I think all of us want it to do—I am not going to delve into the specifics of precisely what might be contained in it, but that this Government are very clear that we will always back British shipbuilding.
Clive Betts
Lab
Sheffield South East
Question
I congratulate my right hon. Friend on his appointment—he is very well suited to the job at hand. I am sure he will understand, though, if I also express my disappointment that his predecessor and my constituency neighbour, my right hon. Friend the Member for Rawmarsh and Conisbrough (John Healey), felt he had to resign because of the inadequacies, as he saw them, in the defence investment plan. I congratulate everyone involved on the seizing of the tanker. It is an important lesson for Putin that we are going to disrupt his war machine, but it is also a first; will the Secretary of State indicate if we are looking to undertake such operations more regularly in order to ensure that the many such tankers that sail in these waters are not free do so in future without the fear that our Government may act against them?
Minister reply
I am grateful to my hon. Friend for his comments, and I share the sentiment he expressed at the beginning of his question. I anticipated that he might seek to draw reference to the hugely important industrial activity that takes place in and around his constituency in South Yorkshire. This Department and this Government believe strongly that defence is an engine for growth, and I am acutely aware of the economic opportunities that exist in his part of the world. He is right to reference the fact that this is the first type of activity of its kind. It will sow the seeds of doubt in our adversary’s mind. He will understand that I am not going to speculate about what we might do in future, but the simple act of the Prime Minister’s commitment back in March has had a significant deterrent effect, as will the activities of yesterday morning.
Question
I welcome the Secretary of State to his place, and pay tribute and give thanks to our incredible armed forces in the successful seizure of the shadow tanker. It was nice to see the Chancellor alongside the Secretary of State for the first half of this statement. Shall we take from her departure that she is only half committed to funding the defence investment plan?
Minister reply
The hon. Gentleman, I have to say, is a constant source of disappointment to me, not least because I believe he has the potential to be the statesperson of his party.
Question
While our brave servicemen and women were defending our national interests over the weekend, today it has been reported by the BBC that Russian state operatives were linked with arson attacks on our Prime Minister. Just last week, Stephen Yaxley-Lennon was meeting Errol Musk in Russia, and the hon. Member for Great Yarmouth (Rupert Lowe) has said that he would not block that same individual from joining his party. Does the Secretary of State agree that there is no greater threat to our national security, nor anything more unpatriotic, than this dangerous rise in far-right politics across our country?
Minister reply
I completely agree with my hon. Friend, who makes an important point. She referenced the abhorrent attacks that we have seen in recent times. She will not expect me to get into the detail of all that but what I can say is that, as I saw very clearly in my previous role, our counter-terrorism police and our operational partners in the security services are extraordinarily dedicated in their work. All of that is done in the shadows, and we should be very grateful for their efforts. I give her and the House an assurance that we take the threat that she describes incredibly seriously and will always guard against it.
Maldon
Question
I congratulate the right hon. Gentleman on his appointment and welcome the action in the channel. He will be aware that last night saw one of the biggest attacks yet on civilian buildings and people in Kyiv, and included damage to the historic cathedral there. He will also be aware that dual-use technology is still arriving in Russia via third countries. We heard today from the Ukrainian Speaker about washing machine microcircuits that were supposedly going to Kazakhstan being found in Russian missiles falling on Kyiv. Will the Secretary of State look again, with his colleagues, at what further action we can take to stop this technology being used to kill more people in Ukraine?
Minister reply
The right hon. Gentleman is right to draw attention to the horror of the continued attacks on civilians in Ukraine. It is beyond abhorrent, and we must continue to remind ourselves of the totally reckless nature of Putin’s illegal war. As a Government, we have an absolute responsibility to use all means at our disposal to make it as practically difficult for Russia as we possibly can. I am extremely grateful for the efforts of the Ministers from the FCDO and the Department for Business and Trade, who are sat alongside me on the Front Bench, and their work to combat this particular threat; they all take the work incredibly seriously and I look forward to working closely with them in that endeavour.
Question
I warmly welcome the Secretary of State to his place. I know that he is man of integrity and decency; I have known him for over 15 years and I wish him the best of luck in his new role. I also join him in paying tribute to the men and women who organised and conducted this operation. They are the best of the best, the bravest of the brave, and we all thank them, across this House and beyond. International co-operational is hugely important in tackling the Russian shadow fleet, so can the Secretary of State confirm that we are working closely with our allies to take every opportunity to degrade Russia’s war effort?
Minister reply
I have known my hon. Friend for a very long time; he proudly represents a constituency with a long track record of sending young men and women off to serve in our armed forces, and he is a great champion of them and all those who serve. He is completely right to raise the important point about international co-operation. I have spent much of the weekend talking to allies, and on Wednesday I will be heading to Brussels to co-chair the Ukraine Defence Contact Group with my German counterpart. The Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, my hon. Friend the Member for Cardiff South and Penarth, who has joined me on the Front Bench, also works tirelessly on these matters to make sure that we collaborate closely with our international partners in order to tighten the screw on Russia.
Brendan O'Hara
SNP
Argyll and Bute
Question
Congratulates the Minister on his appointment, paying tribute to Royal Marines, welcoming action against Russian shadow fleet but suggests link between PM's decision and MOD disintegration due to Treasury funding issues. Asks if seizing merchant shipping could soon be limit of RN’s surface capability.
Minister reply
Joins in paying tribute to the Royal Marines; denies any link between current operation and previous government disarray.
Question
Welcomes Minister to his role, pays tribute to Royal Marine reserves in her constituency, urges continued support for Ukraine. Asks Minister to maintain posture of support.
Minister reply
Acknowledges importance of balancing civilian and military life; assures that efforts will continue to degrade Putin’s war machine.
Question
Welcomes the Minister, asks for exact cost of maintaining and decommissioning seized ship.
Minister reply
Apologises for not providing specific figure; suggests that costs are within Department for Transport’s jurisdiction.
Question
Congratulates the Minister on his role, pays tribute to operation success, asks if it's start of more aggressive attitude towards shadow fleet.
Minister reply
Acknowledges importance of international cooperation and robust action against illegal trade funding war.
Question
Raises concern about impact of steel tariffs on UK defence capabilities; asks for meeting with Minister to discuss same.
Minister reply
Engaged with industry; willing to meet with the hon. Member and her colleagues.
Question
Discusses importance of maritime safety, raises issue of flags of convenience used by shadow fleet; asks for efforts to deter such practices.
Minister reply
Acknowledges concerns about flags of convenience; working closely with allies on the matter.
Question
Congratulates new Defence Secretary, references DIP funding issues and asks for confidence in new plans to satisfy all parties.
Minister reply
Acknowledges limited time but committed to making progress; invites criticism from the hon. Member.
Question
Welcomes Minister, commends action against Russian shadow fleet; asks about sanctions alignment with allies on future operations.
Minister reply
Acknowledges work of National Crime Agency and assures close cooperation with international allies.
Question
Welcomes the Secretary of State to his position, inquires about status of UK's hunter-killer fleet.
Minister reply
Grateful for question but unable to comment on availability and activity of submarines.
Gedling
Question
I welcome my right hon. and gallant Friend to his new role. He is a very humble man, but may I say what a pleasure it is to work with him and with hon. and gallant Members from across the House? I pay tribute to all the armed services personnel who took part in yesterday’s really important operation. Sanctions are really important, and sanctions against the Russian war machine are incredibly important in defending our allies in Ukraine. However, sanctions work only if we look to enforce them. What reassurance can the Secretary of State give me that this Government will continue to support that enforcement?
Minister reply
I am very grateful to my hon. Friend for his question. He has slightly thrown me, because he is not in his usual place, but it is good to see him on the other side of the Government Benches. My hon. Friend is right, both about the importance of sanctions and about the importance of sanctions enforcement. It is an issue that my hon. Friend the Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, takes very seriously—he keeps sanctions under very close review, as do other colleagues across Government, including in the Department for Business and Trade. However, I am very happy to speak to my hon. Friend further about this issue.
Peter Fortune
Lab
Wansbeck
Question
It is good to see the hon. Member for Harlow (Chris Vince) moving to the right. I pay tribute to members of the armed forces community, who played a big part in this operation; they truly are the best of us. Could the Secretary of State advise us on any actions that are being taken regarding the Russian frigate Admiral Grigorovich, which has been patrolling in English waters for two months without intervention from the Royal Navy?
Minister reply
I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for raising that point. He will understand that it would be unwise of me to give a commentary on specific activities, but I hope that yesterday’s actions demonstrate our absolute resolve to take robust action against Russia, and we will look for every opportunity to do so.
John Slinger
Con
Great Yarmouth
Question
I welcome my right hon. and gallant Friend to his place and his new position. Given that nearly three times as many Conservative Members were in the Chamber for the urgent question on the defence investment plan as are here for this statement, does he agree that while we are all tempted on occasion to politicise issues, we in this House are better when we speak with one voice, particularly on matters of national security?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend raises an important point. I completely understand why Members on the Conservative Benches and elsewhere want to score political points, but I think the public expect us to behave us in a grown-up fashion, particularly when it comes to the defence of our nation. That will always be my approach, and it is the approach I recommend to others.
Tessa Munt
LD
Wells
Question
I welcome the Defence Secretary to his position and thank him for his statement. Sanctions are ineffective unless they are fully enforced, and I join the Lib Dem spokesperson, my hon. Friend the Member for Lewes (James MacCleary), in pointing out that we cannot allow loopholes to undermine our sanctions regime against Putin’s war machine. Numerous shell companies, as well as flags, are used as shields to disguise operational control of Russia’s shadow fleet, but Russia is also making extensive use of non-military, dual-use manufacturing and the global commercial supply chain to support its war. What action is the Secretary of State taking to prevent Russia using dual-use manufacturing; to boost the UK’s manufacturing expertise, so that it can identify potential dual use, and prevent Russia using commercial supply infrastructure to support its war; and to ensure sanctions are fully enforced?
Minister reply
The hon. Lady is right to highlight the importance of defence manufacturing. She has also raised a number of other important points, not least about unpacking transparency and shell companies. My ministerial colleagues on either side of me—the Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, and my hon. Friend the Minister for Trade—were listening intently to the points she raised, and were providing me with assurances that a lot of activity is taking place in their Departments on standing against the kind of activity that she highlighted. [Interruption.] The hon. Lady is indicating that she wants somebody to write to her. We will work out which one of us will do so.
Shadow Comment
James Cartlidge
Shadow Comment
James Cartlidge, Conservative MP for South Suffolk, welcomes Dan Jarvis to his new role as Secretary of State for Defence and expresses respect for the previous Secretary's principled stance. He supports the recent operation against the Russian shadow fleet but raises concerns over delays in implementing the announced policy since March. Cartlidge criticises the chaos surrounding the defence investment plan, which led to multiple resignations due to insufficient funding, compromising national security. The MP questions whether the Prime Minister is unwilling to provide more funds for the DIP and suggests working with Labour to find welfare savings to fund UK defence needs. He also highlights the Northern Ireland Troubles Bill as a matter of concern, urging the Government to reconsider its stance in the interest of veterans.
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