Paul Watson Seeks Asylum in France

Paul Watson, the founder of Sea Shepherd and a prominent anti-whaling activist, has sought political asylum in France following his detention in Greenland due to an extradition request from Japan. Watson, aged 73, was arrested after his ship docked in Nuuk on July 21 and faces charges related to a 2010 incident involving a Japanese vessel in the Antarctic, which could potentially lead to a 15-year prison sentence. He has made a personal appeal to French President Emmanuel Macron for asylum, emphasizing his emotional ties to France and its significance in ocean conservation. Critics argue his arrest is politically motivated, reflecting Japan's cultural defense of whaling practices. Danish authorities are currently reviewing the extradition request from Japan, which has been pending for over a decade. Watson denies all charges against him and his detention has been extended until October 23.