French Navy Boards Russian-Linked Tanker Off Western Coast

French military personnel have boarded the Benin-flagged oil tanker Boracay, currently anchored off the coast near Saint-Nazaire in western France. The vessel is suspected of being part of Russia's 'shadow fleet'—a network of aging tankers allegedly used to circumvent international sanctions.

The Boracay was stationed off Denmark from September 22 to 25, coinciding with unexplained drone flights over Danish military sites that led to temporary airport closures and a ban on civilian drone operations.

French President Emmanuel Macron stated that the ship is under investigation for 'serious offences' but did not confirm a direct link to the Danish drone incidents.

The Brest public prosecutor's office has initiated an investigation following the crew's failure to justify the vessel's nationality and refusal to cooperate.

The Boracay departed from Russia's Primorsk port on September 20, carrying approximately 115,000 tons of oil, and was scheduled to arrive in Vadinar, India, on October 20.

The Kremlin has denied knowledge of the vessel but criticized certain countries for what it termed 'provocative actions.'

This incident underscores ongoing European efforts to address the activities of Russia's 'shadow fleet,' estimated to comprise between 600 and 1,000 vessels, which are believed to play a significant role in financing Russia's military operations.