French investigators have launched an inquiry into a seized tanker belonging to Russia's shadow fleet — Le Figaro
The French military detained the sanctioned tanker "Tagor," which is part of Russia's "shadow fleet," in the Atlantic Ocean.
The vessel, which was flying the Cameroonian flag, has already arrived at the Bay of Douarnenez in the Brittany region.
It will be handed over to investigative authorities for further investigation, which has been entrusted to the French Maritime Gendarmerie.
The vessel was intercepted on June 1, more than 740 kilometers off the coast of Brittany. According to the investigation, the tanker departed from the Russian city of Murmansk and was heading for the port of Limbé in Cameroon.
A special restricted maritime zone has been established around the detained “Tagor,” and flights over its location have been temporarily restricted.
The military’s tough response was prompted by the crew’s behavior and numerous violations of maritime law.
Brest Prosecutor Stefan Kellenberger reported that the ship’s captain, a Russian citizen, repeatedly refused to comply with the lawful demands of the French military.
Due to this insubordination, the command made the unavoidable decision to take the tanker under its control by force.
This was reported by Le Figaro.
Russia’s shadow tanker fleet threatens the world with a massive ecological disaster – Financial Times
The European Union is considering adding about 20 additional tankers from Russia’s shadow fleet to the upcoming 21st package of restrictive measures aimed at reducing Moscow’s oil revenues. The new sanctions are also planned to extend to vessels transporting liquefied natural gas to prevent the Kremlin from creating a similar shadow fleet for LNG.
Ukraine has introduced a new package of sanctions against Russian commanders who directed missile strikes on Ukrainian cities, as well as against vessels providing military logistics for Russia.
