French Navy Boards Russian Shadow Fleet Tanker Grinch in Mediterranean for Sanctions Violation
The boarding complied with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, permitting inspections for sanctions breaches.
MEDITERRANEAN SEA — On January 22, 2026, the French Navy boarded the oil tanker Grinch, suspected of belonging to Russia’s shadow fleet and flying a false Comoros flag to evade international sanctions.
Sanctioned Tankers Kairos and Virat Sustain External Impacts in Black Sea North of Bosphorus Strait
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The operation occurred off the coast of Almería, Spain, with allied support including United Kingdom intelligence.
A judicial investigation commenced, and the vessel was diverted to Brest, France, for inspection. This action enforces measures against fleets funding Russia’s military efforts in Ukraine.
Operational Details
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