France intercepts Russian tanker under international sanctions

French President Emmanuel Macron stated on Monday that the French Navy had intercepted a tanker under international sanctions sailing from Russia. Macron described the operation as part of efforts to enforce international sanctions and maritime law. On social media platform X, he said the tanker identified as the Tagor was boarded by French Navy personnel in the Atlantic Ocean. ‘The French Navy intercepted the Tagor, a tanker under international sanctions sailing from Russia, yesterday morning,’ he said. Macron added that the operation took place in international waters with support from several partners, including the UK, and was conducted ‘in full compliance with maritime law.’ The French president reiterated that Paris remains fully committed to enforcing international sanctions. ‘It is unacceptable for vessels to evade international sanctions, violate maritime law, and fund the war Russia has waged against Ukraine for over four years,’ he stated. He also warned that vessels operating outside established maritime rules pose broader risks. ‘These vessels, which fail to comply with the most basic maritime navigation rules, also pose a threat to the environment and the safety of all parties,’ Macron said.