Russian oil tanker, the Grinch, intercepted as US, allies escalate sanctions crackdown

Fox News - WorldCenter-RightEN 2 min read 100% complete by Emma BusseyJanuary 23, 2026 at 03:25 AM

AI Summary

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The French navy intercepted a Russian oil tanker, the Grinch, in the Mediterranean Sea as part of an escalating effort by the U.S. and its allies to enforce sanctions against Russia. The interception, which occurred between Spain and Morocco, involved French forces boarding and searching the tanker, suspected of being part of Russia's "shadow fleet" used to evade oil export restrictions. The Grinch, sailing from Murmansk under the Comoros flag, was diverted for further checks due to doubts about its flag's legitimacy. This action follows similar seizures by U.S. forces and reflects a growing crackdown on Russian-linked vessels attempting to circumvent Western sanctions imposed since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The tanker is being escorted to an anchorage for further verification.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Spain 30% Ukraine 30% Morocco 30% European Union 40% Murmansk 40% Comoros 40% Emmanuel Macron ×260% Mediterranean Sea ×260% United States ×360% France ×470% Russia ×580% The Grinch ×590%

Keywords

russian oil tanker 100% sanctions 90% shadow fleet 80% oil exports 70% interception 60% french navy 60% illicit oil 50% mediterranean 50% vessel flag 40%