Dialogos

Suspect Russian Tanker from 'Shadow Fleet' Directed to Marseille Port

Published January 23, 2026, 21:00
Suspect Russian Tanker from 'Shadow Fleet' Directed to Marseille Port

The French Navy has compelled the tanker GRINCH to head towards the port of Marseille for further investigation. The vessel was intercepted as soon as it entered the Mediterranean Sea via the Strait of Gibraltar, amid suspicions that it is sailing under a false flag and belongs to the so-called 'shadow fleet' used by Russia to export oil despite sanctions. The GRINCH departed from Murmansk in early January, and the case is being investigated by the Marseille prosecutor specializing in maritime law. The tanker is flagged to the Comoros.