The French Navy has intercepted an oil tanker suspected of transporting Russian fuel as part of Moscow’s so-called “shadow fleet,” French President Emmanuel Macron announced.
According to French officials, the vessel was operating under a false flag in an attempt to evade international sanctions imposed on Russian energy exports.
The operation marks a significant escalation in European efforts to crack down on maritime networks used by Russia to bypass price caps and trade restrictions.
Speaking on the operation, Macron emphasized France’s commitment to enforcing international maritime law and upholding economic sanctions aimed at curtailing Russia’s military funding. French authorities stated that the vessel has been detained for further investigation into its registration and cargo origins.
