The Grinch

The 'Grinch' is an oil tanker suspected of being part of Russia's 'shadow fleet,' a network of vessels used to circumvent Western sanctions on Russian oil exports. These ships often operate under false flags to conceal their origin and destination. The 'Grinch' is newsworthy because it was recently intercepted and seized by the French navy in the Mediterranean Sea. French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed the seizure, stating the vessel was subject to international sanctions and suspected of flying a false flag. The ship was boarded with assistance from allies, including the UK. The Indian captain of the vessel is now in French custody. This event highlights the ongoing efforts by Western nations to enforce sanctions against Russia and disrupt its ability to finance its war in Ukraine through oil exports. The incident underscores the increasing scrutiny of vessels suspected of engaging in sanctions evasion.