Italian Navy boards Russian 'shadow fleet' tanker

The Italian navy ship Thaon di Revel, flagship of the EU's Irini mission in the Mediterranean, has intercepted and boarded a Russian oil tanker. The vessel, named Toa Payoh, was flying the flag of Cameroon but is identified as belonging to Russia's "shadow fleet" and is subject to EU sanctions.

The tanker departed from Cotonou, Benin, on July 16 and was headed for Istanbul. It was intercepted west of Pantelleria. The Italian Minister of Defense, Guido Crosetto, praised the professionalism and determination of the crew involved in the operation, stating it demonstrates Italy's contribution to Mediterranean security and EU actions.

Initially, the tanker's commander did not cooperate with the requested checks. An Italian military team was deployed via helicopter from the Thaon di Revel to conduct the necessary inspections. The operation, supported by a Greek ship and a Polish patrol aircraft, lasted approximately two hours and concluded without incident.

The mission was conducted in international waters under the European mandate, adhering to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. Checks are ongoing to verify the information and documentation gathered during the boarding.

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I wish to congratulate the personnel of Nave Thaon di Revel and all the military personnel involved in the operation for the professionalism, preparation, and firmness shown. This activity also concretely testifies to Italy's contribution to the security of the Mediterranean and the European Union's action.