Russia has denounced the French Navy’s interception of a tanker sailing from its waters in the Atlantic Ocean, branding the move as both illegal and akin to international piracy.
During a press briefing in Moscow on Monday, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov expressed strong opposition to the seizure, dismissing claims that the detention of the vessel aligned with international maritime law. Peskov emphasized that Russia is actively implementing measures to safeguard its cargo, noting that these actions are being taken with the benefit of past negative experiences regarding similar vessel incidents.
The incident centers on the tanker Tagor, which was intercepted by the French Navy early Sunday morning. French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed the operation, stating that it was conducted in international waters with the support of several partners, including the United Kingdom. Macron maintained that the interception was carried out in strict compliance with maritime law as part of a broader effort to enforce international sanctions.
Highlighting the strategic importance of these enforcement actions, Macron asserted that Paris remains fully committed to upholding international sanctions. He stated that it is unacceptable for vessels to circumvent these regulations or violate maritime law, particularly when such actions are perceived as financing the ongoing war against Ukraine, which has persisted for over four years.
In response to the seizure, the Russian Embassy in France has formally requested information from French authorities regarding the status of the vessel and the potential presence of Russian citizens among the crew. According to preliminary reports from the embassy, the captain of the Tagor is a Russian national. However, the embassy noted that it has yet to receive official notification from French authorities concerning the specific actions taken against the ship or its personnel.
Summary
Russia has condemned the French Navy’s seizure of the oil tanker Tagor in the Atlantic Ocean, labeling the action as illegal and akin to international piracy. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that the detention violates international maritime law and that Russia is taking steps to protect its cargo. The interception occurred early Sunday morning in international waters with support from several partners, including the United Kingdom.
President Emmanuel Macron defended the operation as a necessary measure to enforce international sanctions and prevent the financing of the war against Ukraine. In response, the Russian Embassy in France has requested official information regarding the ship’s status and the safety of its crew members. Preliminary reports indicate that the vessel’s captain is a Russian national, though official notification from French authorities is still pending.
