Image: from Emmanuel Macron X@EmmanuelMacron
By Open Chronicle News Desk
PARIS — In a move to tighten the squeeze on Moscow’s maritime activities, the French Navy intercepted a Russian oil tanker in the western Mediterranean on Thursday. The vessel is suspected of being part of the so-called “shadow fleet,” a network of ships used to bypass international sanctions and continue the export of Russian hydrocarbons to global markets.
The operation was confirmed by French President Emmanuel Macron, who stated that the intervention was carried out with the support of allied naval forces, including the United Kingdom, and in full compliance with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. The tanker, identified as the GRINCH, had reportedly departed from the northern Russian port of Murmansk.
“The activities of the shadow fleet contribute to financing Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine,” President Macron said in a statement. “We will not tolerate any violation of international sanctions.”
We will not tolerate any violation.
This morning, the French Navy boarded an oil tanker coming from Russia, subject to international sanctions and suspected of flying a false flag.
The operation was conducted on the high seas in the Mediterranean,… pic.twitter.com/zhXVdzPx1r
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) January 22, 2026
Maritime authorities noted that the ship was suspected of flying a “false flag” from the Comoros Islands to mask its true origin and ownership. Following the interception, which occurred in international waters between southern Spain and northern Morocco, the case was referred to the Marseille prosecutor. The vessel is currently being diverted under escort for a thorough investigation and inspection.
This latest action underscores the European Union’s ongoing efforts to enforce its 19th package of sanctions against Russia. The use of “ghost ships” or shadow fleets has become a primary target for Western intelligence, as these vessels often operate with irregular insurance, obscure ownership, and deceptive signaling to evade price caps and trade restrictions.
The Russian consulate in Marseille has reportedly sought clarification on the situation, specifically regarding the safety and nationality of the crew members on board. As the GRINCH remains under French custody, the incident marks a significant escalation in the enforcement of maritime sanctions in Mediterranean waters.