France Says Navy Stopped Sanctioned Tanker Traveling from Russia

(MENAFN) French President Emmanuel Macron announced that the French Navy intercepted a tanker subject to international sanctions that was traveling from Russia, describing the action as part of broader efforts to enforce sanctions and protect maritime security.

According to Macron, French naval forces boarded the vessel, identified as the Tagor, during an operation conducted in the Atlantic Ocean.

“The French Navy intercepted yesterday morning a new tanker under international sanctions coming from Russia: the Tagor,” he stated.

The French leader said the operation took place in international waters and was carried out with assistance from several partner countries, including the United Kingdom.

Macron emphasized that the mission was conducted “in strict compliance with the law of the sea” and formed part of France’s commitment to enforcing international restrictions imposed on Russia.

“It is unacceptable that ships circumvent international sanctions, violate the law of the sea and finance the war that Russia has been waging against Ukraine for more than four years,” he stressed.

He also argued that vessels operating outside established maritime regulations create risks that extend beyond sanctions enforcement.

“These ships, which do not respect the most basic rules of maritime navigation, also constitute a threat to the environment and to the safety of all,” Macron said.

The interception comes as European countries continue efforts to monitor and restrict maritime activities linked to sanctions evasion, particularly those involving vessels suspected of supporting trade connected to Russia amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.

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