French Navy Intercepts Russian Shadow Fleet Tanker in Mediterranean Operation

The French Navy, in collaboration with British allies, seized the Mozambique-flagged oil tanker 'Deyna' in the Western Mediterranean. Suspected of being part of Russia's shadow fleet, the vessel was allegedly helping Moscow bypass Western sanctions to export oil. This operation marks France's second interception of such vessels recently.

In a cooperative operation with British allies, the French Navy intercepted an oil tanker suspected of being part of Russia's elusive shadow fleet, aimed at circumventing Western sanctions. The ship, named 'Deyna' and flying a Mozambique flag, was halted in the Western Mediterranean as it sailed from Murmansk.

This action, confirmed by local officials to Reuters, highlights the ongoing efforts to restrict Russia's economic movements amidst increasing sanctions following the 2022 Ukraine invasion. The vessel was taken to an anchorage for thorough inspection, as ordered by the prosecutor.

President Emmanuel Macron accused these ships of contravening international sanctions and the law of the sea, declaring them 'war profiteers' financing Russia’s aggression. This marks the second French interception of such tankers, demonstrating an intensifying crackdown on illicit maritime activity.