Story perspectives

Starmer Orders Boardings; 98 Russian Ships Still Pass British Waters

4/29/2026

Summary

Story summary

Prime Minister Keir Starmer authorized military boardings of Russia’s shadow-fleet ships, yet none occurred.
In the month after the March order, 98 sanctioned Russian vessels still transited British waters, matching prior traffic.
Sixty-three passed within 12 nautical miles of the English Channel, while 35 entered the EEZ off north Scotland.
Elisabeth Braw warned ships may see the threat as empty, noting analysts cite lack of a coastguard and legal-economic hurdles.

1 of 1

Story summary

Prime Minister Keir Starmer authorized military boardings of Russia’s shadow-fleet ships, yet none occurred.
In the month after the March order, 98 sanctioned Russian vessels still transited British waters, matching prior traffic.
Sixty-three passed within 12 nautical miles of the English Channel, while 35 entered the EEZ off north Scotland.
Elisabeth Braw warned ships may see the threat as empty, noting analysts cite lack of a coastguard and legal-economic hurdles.