France: Navy Stops Russian Oil Tanker Near Sicily; Macron Posts Video of Operation

The French navy has intercepted an oil tanker sailing from Russia near Sicily, suspecting it of violating international maritime law. French President Emmanuel Macron announced the operation via X, posting a video of armed forces boarding the vessel, identified as the "Deliver."

According to French Defense Minister Catherine Vautrin, the tanker is believed to be part of Russia's "shadow fleet" – cargo ships with opaque ownership structures used by Russia to bypass sanctions imposed following its invasion of Ukraine. Vautrin stated the ship is suspected of operating under a false flag, emphasizing that disrupting the financial channels supporting Russia's war economy is crucial.

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The ship 'Deliver' has violated international maritime law.

Macron asserted that the operation against the Russian shadow fleet demonstrates European resolve. "We will not let the shadow fleet circumvent sanctions and finance Russian war efforts," he declared. France has previously intercepted vessels suspected of belonging to this fleet in recent months.

This action follows a similar incident involving the British navy, which recently intercepted the oil tanker "Smyrtos" attempting to cross the English Channel. Russia's presidential office indicated that Moscow is considering legal action over the "Smyrtos" tanker incident. Reports suggest the British government may auction the 100,000 tons of Russian crude oil aboard the "Smyrtos," with proceeds intended for Ukraine.

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We will not let the shadow fleet circumvent sanctions and finance Russian war efforts.