France Russia Tanker Intercepted

In this handout photo provided by the French Army, French soldiers use a rope from a NH90 helicopter intercepts an oil tanker that was traveling from Russia under international sanctions, on the Atlantic Sea, Sunday, May 31, 2026.

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Macron says French Navy, backed by the UK, intercepted a sanctioned tanker from Russia

Macron says French Navy, backed by the UK, intercepted a sanctioned tanker from Russia

The French Navy, with UK support, has intercepted another Russia-linked oil tanker under international sanctions. French President Emmanuel Macron announced Sunday's interception of the Tagor in the Atlantic. He emphasized the importance of enforcing sanctions to prevent financing Russia's war against Ukraine. Oil revenue is crucial for Russia's economy, enabling continued war efforts without economic collapse. France and other nations are determined to crack down on this "shadow fleet." French forces have previously intercepted other tankers linked to Russia. Responding to the latest French interception, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia “considers such actions illegal.”