French president announces seizure of tanker from Russia

French President Emmanuel Macron stated that naval forces conducted an operation in the Mediterranean targeting a tanker travelling from Russia.

In a post on X page, Macron said French naval forces boarded an oil tanker coming from Russia under the framework of international sanctions, as it is suspected of sailing under a false flag, Caliber.Az reports.

We will not tolerate any violation.

This morning, the French Navy boarded an oil tanker coming from Russia, subject to international sanctions and suspected of flying a false flag.

The operation was conducted on the high seas in the Mediterranean,… pic.twitter.com/zhXVdzPx1r

— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) January 22, 2026

He added that an investigation has been launched and that the vessel’s route has been diverted.

“We are determined to uphold international law and to ensure the effective enforcement of sanctions,” Macron emphasised, noting that the naval personnel acted in accordance with international legal standards.

By Jeyhun Aghazada