Summary
The French navy diverted a Russian-linked oil tanker suspected of evading sanctions to the port of Marseille-Fos for investigation. The tanker, called the "Grinch," was intercepted in the Mediterranean Sea and is believed to be part of a fleet used by Russia to sell oil despite international sanctions.
Key Facts
- The French navy redirected an oil tanker called "Grinch" to Marseille-Fos for investigation.
- This tanker is suspected of being part of Russia’s "shadow fleet" to evade international sanctions.
- French maritime police used a helicopter and navy boat during the interception.
- The tanker was intercepted between Spain’s southern coast and Morocco’s northern coast.
- The tanker left the Russian Arctic port of Murmansk in January.
- The "Grinch" is linked to UK sanctions, and a similar ship, "Carl," is sanctioned by the U.S. and EU.
- The EU has imposed 19 sanction packages against Russia due to its war on Ukraine.
- In October, France detained another sanctioned Russian-linked tanker called "Boracay."
