France Intercepts ‘Shadow Fleet’ Tanker Near Sicily
France took control of a Russia-linked oil tanker off the coast of Sicily this week, French President Emmanuel Macron said Thursday, marking the latest maritime seizure aimed at disrupting Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet.” The vessel, which was flying a Cameroonian flag and sailing from Russia’s Baltic port of Primorsk, was boarded by French forces due to doubts over the validity of its registration, according to the French maritime prefecture.
The incident highlights France’s efforts to crack down on Russian oil tankers that are believed to be part of Moscow’s shadow fleet. This fleet is thought to include hundreds of vessels that operate outside international sanctions and are used to circumvent restrictions on Russian energy exports. The move comes as European Union leaders prepare to meet next week to discuss the bloc’s response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
French Navy Boards Tanker, Conducts Inspections
On Tuesday, the French navy boarded the oil tanker Deliver as it was passing off the coast of Sicily in breach of maritime law. According to Macron, the vessel was sailing without proper documentation and was suspected of being part of Russia’s shadow fleet. The French forces escorted the tanker to an anchorage spot for further inspections.
The boarding operation was carried out by a team of French naval personnel who were accompanied by officials from the French customs agency. The inspectors reportedly found no evidence of illegal activity on board, but the vessel remains in custody pending further investigation.
International Sanctions and Russia’s Shadow Fleet
Russia’s shadow fleet has been a source of concern for international authorities, as it allows Moscow to continue exporting oil and gas despite sanctions imposed by Western countries. The fleet is thought to include hundreds of vessels that operate under flags of convenience or are registered in countries with weak maritime laws.
The French seizure of the Deliver highlights the challenges faced by international authorities in tracking and disrupting Russia’s shadow fleet. While some countries have taken steps to impose their own sanctions on Russian energy exports, others have been slower to act.
As tensions between Russia and the West continue to escalate, it remains to be seen how effective these efforts will be in disrupting Moscow’s ability to export oil and gas.
Original Article: France Intercepts ‘Shadow Fleet’ Tanker Near Sicily — Themoscowtimes