French and UK Navies Intercept Russian Oil Tanker Attempting to Evade Sanctions

France, with support from the UK, has successfully intercepted a Russian oil tanker allegedly involved in bypassing international sanctions. The tanker, originating from Murmansk, was reportedly part of Russia's network of vessels circumventing penalties imposed due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

French President Emmanuel Macron shared the news on X, revealing that the vessel, named the Tagor, was boarded in the Atlantic Ocean on Sunday. A video accompanied his announcement, depicting a person descending from a helicopter onto the ship.

Macron emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, "It is unacceptable for vessels to evade international sanctions, breach maritime laws, and support Russia's prolonged war against Ukraine. These ships pose a risk to both environmental and global safety."

French authorities disclosed that the tanker was falsely flying a Cameroonian flag and was en route to Limbe, Cameroon. According to Guillaume Le Rasle, spokesperson for the Atlantic maritime prefecture, the tanker was subject to EU and US sanctions and was being monitored.

"The decision to redirect the vessel was made on Sunday evening," Le Rasle explained. "The purpose is to verify the legitimacy of its flag." At the time of the boarding, the tanker was nearly empty and had recently switched from a Madagascan flag while near Norway, as tracked by MarineTraffic.

The interception took place over 400 nautical miles west of Brittany.

Russia's Shadow Fleet

Oil revenues are crucial for Russia's economy, helping fund its ongoing conflict in Ukraine. To sidestep sanctions, Russia reportedly operates a vast fleet of ships. France and other nations have vowed to tackle this "shadow fleet."

Since September, France has intercepted three additional vessels, which were released after fines were issued. Notably, the French navy boarded the Boracay in September, leading to legal action against its Chinese captain. In January and March, French forces seized other suspect tankers, the Grinch and the Deyna, respectively.

To strengthen enforcement, France announced in April plans to increase penalties for ships failing to comply with flag requirements. Western countries have imposed sanctions on Russian ships following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine, a move criticized by Russian President Vladimir Putin as "piracy." [1] [2]