Lauge Risom Koch 
France has seized another tanker linked to Russia’s shadow fleet in the Atlantic Ocean, prompting the Kremlin to condemn the operation as illegal.
France has seized another oil tanker suspected of operating as part of Russia’s so-called shadow fleet, prompting an angry response from the Kremlin.
The vessel was intercepted in the Atlantic Ocean during a naval operation supported by several international partners.
Tanker intercepted
According to Digi24, citing AFP and Agerpres, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that the French Navy seized the tanker on Sunday.
The operation took place more than 400 nautical miles west of Brittany and was conducted with support from several allies, including the United Kingdom.
French maritime authorities said inspectors boarded the vessel after identifying possible irregularities involving its flag registration.
The ship, identified as Tagor, is now being held while further checks are carried out.
Macron’s warning
Macron said the operation formed part of France’s efforts to enforce international sanctions against Russia.
“It is unacceptable that the vessels circumvent international sanctions, violate the law of the sea and finance the war that Russia has been waging against Ukraine for over 4 years,” he wrote on X.
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According to Digi24, the French president also warned that such vessels pose environmental and maritime safety risks.
He described France’s determination to combat Russia’s shadow fleet as “constant and total.”
Kremlin reaction
The Kremlin condemned the seizure and accused France of acting unlawfully.
“We consider these actions illegal, bordering on international piracy,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.
According to Digi24, Peskov added that Russia was taking measures to protect its cargo shipments.
The comments marked the latest dispute between Moscow and European governments over sanctions enforcement.
Investigation launched
The Brest prosecutor’s office confirmed that a criminal investigation has been opened.
According to prosecutors, the tanker’s captain refused to comply with orders issued by French naval authorities.
Officials are investigating possible flag registration violations as well as refusal to obey maritime authorities.
The seizure is the fourth operation of its kind carried out by France against vessels linked to Russia’s shadow fleet since September 2025.
Sources: Digi24, AFP, Agerpres
