France has released the oil tanker Grinch from custody after a French court ordered its owning company to pay “several million euros.” The vessel, suspected of being part of Russia’s shadow fleet, will now leave French territorial waters. French Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné Barrot confirmed the settlement and court condemnation.
The oil tanker Grinch, seized by French authorities in January 2026 for suspected violations linked to Russia’s shadow fleet, has been cleared to depart French territorial waters. French Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné Barrot announced that the company owning the vessel was condemned by a French court and required to pay “several million euros.”
The tanker was intercepted by the French Navy near Marseille and investigated for sanction breaches, including questions over its flag registration and cargo origin. The vessel’s captain, an Indian national, was detained during the inquiry, while the crew remained onboard. Following the court’s ruling, France has allowed the tanker to leave, signaling closure to the high-profile maritime case.
Key Highlights
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Court Decision: Company ordered to pay “several million euros”
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Minister’s Statement: Stéphane Séjourné Barrot confirmed settlement
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Tanker Release: Vessel cleared to exit French waters
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Background: Grinch suspected of being part of Russia’s shadow fleet
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Captain Detained: Indian national questioned during investigation
This development underscores France’s firm stance on sanction enforcement while balancing maritime law obligations.
Sources: Reuters, The Maritime Executive, French Navy reports