France Seizes Oil Tanker Departing Russia in Mediterranean
The French navy suspects the oil tanker is part of a shadow fleet carrying sanctioned Russian crude.
France's Navy, working with intelligence provided by the United Kingdom, intercepts an oil tanker in the Mediterranean Sea on Jan. 22, 2026. Etat-Major des Armees via AP
The French navy boarded a sanctioned oil tanker Thursday departing Russia flying under a false flag in the Mediterranean Sea, French President Emmanuel Macron said.
The operation was carried out with several allies and in strict compliance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, Macron said.
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Jill McLaughlin is an award-winning journalist covering politics, environment, and statewide issues. She has been a reporter and editor for newspapers in Oregon, Nevada, and New Mexico. Jill was born in Yosemite National Park and enjoys the majestic outdoors, traveling, golfing, and hiking.
