A Russian arms vessel carrying weapons to be delivered to the Syrian government has turned back towards Russia, after having its insurance withdrawn.

The MV Alaed, currently off the coast of Scotland, is believed to be carrying Mi-25 attack helicopters and anti-ship missiles for Syria, a move that drew the ire of the United States.
 
After alleged pressure from the UK, the vessel’s insurance was withdrawn, with insurer Standard Club saying in a statement,

"We were made aware of the allegations that the Alaed was carrying munitions destined for Syria."

"We have already informed the ship owner that their insurance cover ceased automatically in view of the nature of the voyage."

A spokesperson for Standard Club also went on to state,

"There was no pressure at all from the UK government that I am aware of."

British foreign Secretary William Hague earlier confirmed reports that the ship was heading back towards Russia, telling Parliament,

"I am pleased that the ship that was reported to be carrying arms to Syria has now turned back apparently towards Russia."

"We have in place a European Union arms embargo on Syria. We discourage anyone else from supplying arms to Syria."

"We've had discussions with Russia about that specifically and I'm pleased that the ship that was reported to be carrying arms to Syria has now turned back apparently towards Russia."

In an earlier statement, a UK Foreign Office spokesman said,

“The Foreign Secretary made clear to Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov when they met on 14 June that all defence shipments to Syria must stop. We are working closely with international partners to ensure that we are doing all we can to stop the Syrian regime’s ability to slaughter civilians being reinforced through assistance from other countries.”