France Seizes Russian Shadow Fleet Tanker Grinch

The French Navy, backed by international allies, has intercepted the oil tanker Grinch in the Mediterranean Sea, suspected of belonging to Russia’s shadowy fleet that circumvents Western sanctions on Moscow’s oil exports. The vessel, which departed from the Arctic port of Murmansk in early January, was boarded on Thursday between Spain and Morocco. French President Emmanuel Macron announced the operation, emphasizing that the ship was flying a false flag and subject to international sanctions. Images from the military showed masked commandos descending from helicopters onto the tanker in a swift maritime enforcement action.

The Grinch, previously linked to multiple identities including the sanctioned names “Grinch” under UK listings and “Carl” under US and EU sanctions, was operating under a Comoros flag according to tracking data. This interception marks the latest effort by Western nations to crack down on the shadow fleet, which helps Russia and other sanctioned countries like Iran transport oil illicitly. French prosecutors have opened an investigation into potential violations, with the ship now under escort toward French waters.

This marks the second such boarding by France in recent months, following the detention of the Russian-linked vessel Boracay in September, whose Chinese captain faces trial in February. Russian President Vladimir Putin had condemned that earlier action as “piracy,” highlighting growing tensions over maritime enforcement of sanctions. The Grinch operation involved coordination with allies, including UK support, underscoring heightened international collaboration to target evasion tactics.

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The tanker is expected to dock at the port of Marseille-Fos in southern France on Saturday morning for further inspection and possible seizure. Authorities aim to scrutinize its cargo, documentation, and compliance with global restrictions on Russian oil trade. This bold move signals France’s firm stance against sanctions-busting activities amid ongoing geopolitical strains.

The incident reflects escalating Western pressure on Russia’s energy revenues, which fund its military efforts. As shadow fleet operations grow more sophisticated, such interceptions demonstrate determination to enforce compliance on the high seas.

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