French Navy Seizes Russian Tanker in Mediterranean
The French Navy has seized a Russian tanker suspected of flying under a false flag, according to President Emmanuel Macron’s Twitter post. The operation was carried out in the Mediterranean Sea with the support of several allied nations and was fully compliant with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
International Sanctions Enforced
The seized tanker, reportedly named Grinch, is believed to have been traveling from Russia and is suspected of flying under a false flag. The French authorities have launched an investigation into the vessel’s illegal course. British forces played a significant role in the operation, providing intelligence necessary for the seizure.
French President Emphasizes Determination
In his Twitter post, Macron emphasized France’s determination to enforce international sanctions and prevent similar practices employed by the Russian Federation. “We are determined to ensure that international law is respected and that sanctions are effective,” he wrote, highlighting the importance of stopping shadow fleet operations that finance Russia’s war against Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Expresses Gratitude
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for France’s actions on social media. “Thank you, France! Thank you, @EmmanuelMacron! This is exactly the kind of resolve needed to ensure that Russian oil no longer finances Russia’s war,” he wrote.
Sanctions Against Russian Infrastructure
Zelenskyy also emphasized the need to stop Russian tankers operating near European shores and to impose increasingly strict sanctions on the Russian Federation. “Russian tankers operating off European shores must be stopped, and sanctions against the entire infrastructure of the shadow fleet must be strengthened,” he wrote.
Investigation Underway
The French authorities have launched an investigation into the seized tanker’s activities, while British forces provided intelligence necessary for the operation. The incident highlights France’s commitment to enforcing international sanctions and preventing similar practices employed by the Russian Federation.
Original Article: Francja. Akcja na Morzu Śródziemnym. Przechwycono rosyjski tankowiec — Polsatnews (Polish) | View English Translation