Moscow: The Kremlin on Monday condemned France’s interception of a tanker traveling from Russia in the Atlantic Ocean, labeling the action as ‘illegal’. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov expressed this stance during a press briefing in Moscow, asserting that such actions verge on international piracy.

According to Anadolu Agency, Peskov refuted claims that the detention of vessels departing from Russia aligns with international law. He emphasized that Russia is implementing measures to safeguard its cargo and will persist in doing so, especially in light of past negative experiences.

Earlier, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that the French Navy had intercepted a sanctioned tanker, named the Tagor, in the Atlantic Ocean. The interception was described as part of a broader effort to enforce sanctions and uphold maritime law. Macron stated that the operation took place on the high seas with support from several partners, including the UK, and was executed in full compliance with the law of the sea.

Macron reiterated France’s dedication to enforcing international sanctions, stating that it is unacceptable for ships to circumvent these sanctions, violate maritime law, and fund the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

In response to the tanker’s seizure, the Russian Embassy in France officially requested information from French authorities regarding the possible presence of Russian nationals among the crew. The embassy highlighted that initial information suggests the tanker’s captain is a Russian citizen and noted that it has not yet received any notification from French authorities concerning actions taken against the vessel.