France Charges Russian Shadow Fleet Tanker Captain For Sanctions Evasion

French authorities have detained the captain and first mate of the oil tanker Boracay, which is suspected to be part of Russia's "shadow fleet" used to evade Western sanctions amid the Ukraine conflict. The vessel, often changing names and flags, was stopped off the western coast of France and is currently anchored near Saint-Nazaire. French prosecutors accuse the captain of refusing to comply with naval orders and failing to justify the ship's nationality, with the captain facing trial in early 2025. French President Emmanuel Macron highlighted the shadow fleet's significant role in financing Russia's war effort, estimating it comprises 600 to 1,000 ships and contributes over 30 billion euros annually. Additionally, there is speculation about the Boracay's involvement in recent drone incursions over Denmark, though authorities have not confirmed a direct link. The investigation underscores France's commitment to disrupting these vessels that undermine sanctions imposed on Russia.