France intercepts oil tanker linked to Russia’s shadow fleet carrying oil to India, says tanker had…,Indian crude oil from Russia…

The French Navy has reportedly intercepted an oil tanker linked to Russia’s shadow fleet carrying oil to India. Scroll down to know more.

New Delhi: In a major geopolitical development, France has taken a big step amid mysterious drone activity in Europe and growing suspicions of Russian involvement in Europe. In the recent development, the French Navy surrounded and seized the oil tanker “Boracay,” believed to be linked to the Russian “shadow fleet,” off the coast of western France. According to Brest city prosecutor Stephan Kellenberger, two crew members, identifying themselves as captain and first mate have been detained. Authorities stated that the ship’s nationality could not be verified, and the crew refused to cooperate with the investigation. Here are all the details you need to know recent development in France’s Brest city.

Why has French Navy intercepted the oil tanker?

According to a report in the British newspaper Guardian, the Boracay oil tanker has changed its name and identity several times recently. The report has also added that the ship was carrying approximately 750,000 barrels of crude oil and was being transported from Primorsk, Russia (near St. Petersburg), to India. However, the French Navy intercepted it and diverted it to the port of Saint-Nazaire. French President Emmanuel Macron called the seizure and interception of the oil tanker a positive step.

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How has Russia reacted to the oil tanker interception?

Reacting to the incident, Russia has denied any knowledge of this matter, but European countries are linking it to Russia’s strategy. Readers should note that Russia is accused of smuggling oil through its “shadow fleet” due to sanctions.

The UK, the European Union, and other countries have imposed economic sanctions on the tanker “Boracay,” identified by its International Maritime Order number. The UK stated in October 2024 that the tanker, then registered as “Varuna,” was part of Russia’s “shadow fleet” and involved in transporting Russian oil or oil products to third countries.

What is Russia’s shadow fleet?

“Shadow fleet” is a term used for ships whose ownership is difficult to trace or whose identities are deliberately misidentified. Usually used by countries to secretly trade oil and other commodities to evade international economic sanctions, the fleets have been largely used by Russia to avoid sanctions.