France Seizes Suspected Russian ‘Shadow Fleet’ Oil Tanker in Mediterranean

France’s navy, acting on British intelligence, has seized a suspected Russian «shadow fleet» oil tanker in a commando-style operation in the Mediterranean Sea. Pictured: The scene from the French Navy operation

France’s navy has seized a suspected Russian «shadow fleet» oil tanker in the Mediterranean Sea following intelligence provided by the UK, authorities said on Thursday.

The vessel, named Grinch, was intercepted in a commando-style operation off the southern coast of Spain and is suspected of operating under a false flag to evade Western sanctions on Russian oil exports.

French officials said the tanker is linked to Moscow’s sanction-busting network used to keep oil revenues flowing despite restrictions imposed over the war in Ukraine. The ship is now being escorted to port for inspections.

President Emmanuel Macron said the operation showed France’s determination to uphold international law and enforce sanctions, adding that the shadow fleet helps finance Russia’s war effort. The seizure highlights growing efforts by Western allies to crack down on Russia’s covert oil shipping operations, estimated to involve hundreds of vessels worldwide.

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