France's Seizure of Shadow Fleet Tanker Sparks Global Tensions

France's capture of a tanker allegedly linked to Russia's shadow oil trade has drawn criticism from the Kremlin, which deems the act 'hysteria' and warns of its potential impact on global energy routes. The vessel, captained by a Chinese national, was apprehended off western France.

The Kremlin criticized France's actions on Thursday after it boarded a tanker suspected of being part of Russia's clandestine oil trade network. The Russian government labeled the move as 'hysteria' that could disrupt international energy transport routes, questioning the origin of the seized oil.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov expressed uncertainty over the oil's source, posing the question, 'What if it's not Russian oil?' and warning about possible global repercussions. He framed the situation within what he termed a climate of hysteria.

French authorities have arrested the Chinese captain of the tanker, which was reportedly functioning for Russia's 'shadow fleet.' The seizure followed a reported drone-related incident near Copenhagen that affected airport operations.

(With inputs from agencies.)