French Authorities Detain Russian-Linked Oil Tanker Off Atlantic Coast

French naval forces have detained an oil tanker off the Atlantic coast, suspected of being part of Russia's 'shadow fleet' evading sanctions. Two crew members have been arrested as investigations continue.

The vessel, known as 'Pushpa' or 'Boracay,' was intercepted near Saint-Nazaire after departing Russia's Primorsk terminal on September 20. French authorities boarded the ship following suspicions of illegal activity, including the crew's failure to verify the vessel's nationality and non-compliance with official directives. The Brest prosecutor's office has initiated a judicial investigation into these allegations.

French President Emmanuel Macron commented on the situation, stating: > 'There were some very serious wrongdoings made by this crew, which is why there are legal proceedings in the case.'

The detained tanker is believed to be part of Russia's 'shadow fleet,' a network of vessels allegedly used to circumvent Western sanctions imposed due to Russia's actions in Ukraine. This fleet is estimated to comprise between 600 to 1,000 ships and is said to account for about 40% of the funding for Russia’s military operations.

The Russian Embassy in Paris has not responded to requests for comment regarding the incident. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen acknowledged the broader issue, stating: > 'I can say in more general terms that we are facing a lot of problems with the shadow fleet. And that has been the case, especially in the Baltic Sea for quite a long time. And we are working very closely together to battle this situation.'

The investigation into the detained tanker is ongoing, with French authorities continuing to monitor and address activities related to the 'shadow fleet.'