French Authorities Impose €1 Million Fine on Tagor Tanker Linked to Russian Oil
French authorities on Thursday fined the ‘Tagor‘ tanker, which they intercepted and impounded at the end of May over its role in shipping Russian oil and gas, €1 million ($1.1 million). The fine was announced by the French Ministry of Justice, which stated that the Tagor is now free to leave French waters following the payment of the fine.
The Tagor‘s involvement in transporting Russian oil and gas has been a point of contention between France and Russia. In June, French President Emmanuel Macron posted a video on social media showing commandos boarding the Tagor in an operation that occurred the previous day. This move was seen as part of France’s efforts to disrupt Russia’s ability to fund its war in Ukraine.
Russian Oil Shipments Under Scrutiny
Russia has relied heavily on old vessels, known as the ‘shadow fleet’, to ship its oil and gas, in order to avoid sanctions imposed by Western governments due to its war in Ukraine. This tactic has allowed Russia to continue exporting oil and gas despite international pressure. However, France and Britain have vowed to obstruct such vessels as part of a European strategy to reduce Russia’s ability to fund the war.
Russia rejects the ‘shadow fleet’ label, claiming that its oil shipments are legitimate and that Western attempts to intercept tankers are illegal and akin to piracy. Despite this, the French authorities have taken steps to impound vessels like the Tagor, which has been linked to Russian oil exports.
International Response to Russian Oil Shipments
The international community has been increasingly critical of Russia’s use of the ‘shadow fleet’ to circumvent sanctions. The United States and European Union have imposed strict sanctions on Russia in response to its actions in Ukraine, including the annexation of Crimea. These sanctions have had a significant impact on Russia’s economy, leading it to seek alternative means of exporting oil and gas.
The French authorities‘ decision to fine the Tagor is seen as part of this broader effort to disrupt Russia’s ability to fund its war efforts. As tensions between Russia and the West continue to escalate, it remains to be seen how the international community will respond to Russia’s use of the ‘shadow fleet’.
Original Article: France fines Tagor ‘shadow fleet’ tanker linked to Russian oil €1 million — Aol