Russian ghost fleet: investigation continues in case of tanker intercepted by France and immobilized in Marseille

In early June, French authorities intercepted a large oil tanker named Deliver in the Mediterranean Sea, raising concerns about its potential ties to Russia's so-called "phantom fleet." The vessel was stopped near the coast of Sicily during a routine operation aimed at verifying compliance with international maritime regulations regarding ship registration. According to reports, the Deliver, measuring 275 meters in length, had been flying the flag of Cameroon but showed signs of possible Russian involvement.

The French navy conducted checks on the vessel as part of a broader effort to monitor ships suspected of circumventing Western sanctions imposed on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine. The Deliver had departed from the Russian port of Primorsk, located near the Finnish border, and was heading towards Singapore via the Suez Canal. After being detained, the ship was escorted to the port of Fos-sur-Mer, southeast of Marseille, where it remains under investigation.

French prosecutors have launched an inquiry into unclear aspects related to the ship’s registration. The captain of the Deliver was placed under arrest last Sunday, though he has since been allowed back aboard the vessel. Meanwhile, administrative procedures have been initiated to immobilize the ship while the investigations continue. This marks the fifth such incident involving a suspected Russian phantom fleet vessel seized by France.

The Deliver is believed to be part of a network of ships used by Russia to bypass economic sanctions. These vessels often operate under foreign flags, allowing Moscow to transport goods without triggering restrictions. The French government has been actively involved in efforts to disrupt this practice, emphasizing its commitment to preventing Russia from evading sanctions and funding its military operations in Ukraine.

President Emmanuel Macron expressed his stance on the issue earlier in the week, stating that France would not allow the phantom fleet to avoid sanctions or support Russia's war efforts. He reiterated Europe's determination to increase the costs of the conflict for Russia and work toward a lasting peace in Ukraine. The interception of the Deliver aligns with broader European strategies aimed at tightening controls on maritime trade routes and ensuring compliance with international sanctions.

The situation surrounding the Deliver highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Western nations in monitoring and enforcing sanctions against Russia. With the use of phantom fleets, Moscow seeks to maintain supply chains critical to its economy and military logistics. As investigations proceed, further actions could be taken against other suspected vessels operating under similar conditions.

Authorities in Marseille continue their examination of the Deliver, focusing on clarifying the ship’s true ownership and operational history. The outcome of these inquiries may influence future measures taken by France and its allies to counteract attempts by Russia to circumvent international restrictions. The case underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing complex issues related to global trade and security.