- Macron Says Action Upholds International Law and Targets Sanctions Evasion Funding Russia’s War Effort
PARIS: The French Navy has boarded the Tagor, an oil tanker operating under international sanctions and sailing from Russia, in a coordinated maritime operation conducted in the Atlantic Ocean, French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Sunday.
In a statement posted on X, Macron said the operation was carried out on the high seas with the support of several international partners, including the United Kingdom, and was conducted in full compliance with international maritime law.
“This operation took place in the Atlantic Ocean, on the high seas, with the support of several partners, including the United Kingdom, in strict compliance with the law of the sea,” Macron stated.
The French president stressed that efforts to bypass international sanctions and maritime regulations would not be tolerated, arguing that such activities contribute to financing Russia’s ongoing military campaign in Ukraine.
“It is unacceptable for ships to circumvent international sanctions, violate the law of the sea, and finance the war that Russia has been waging against Ukraine for more than four years,” he added.
The interception underscores growing international efforts to enforce sanctions against Russia and curb the movement of vessels suspected of facilitating the transport of restricted energy exports. The operation also highlights continued cooperation among European partners in monitoring maritime activities linked to sanctions evasion.
BY: The Times Union
