French naval forces detained an oil tanker traveling from Russia on the morning of 22 January, according to French President Emmanuel Macron.
The vessel falls under international sanctions and was likely sailing under a false flag, Macron reported. French forces conducted the operation in the Mediterranean Sea with support from allies and in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Authorities have launched a judicial investigation into the tanker and redirected the ship.
"We are determined to uphold international law and to ensure the effective enforcement of sanctions. The activities of the 'shadow fleet' contribute to financing the war of aggression against Ukraine," Macron said, adding: "We will not tolerate any violation."
