February 17, 2026

Detained Russian “shadow fleet” tanker Grinch released by France after paying multimillion-euro fine

French authorities released the detained oil tanker Grinch (IMO: 9288851) after the company that owns the vessel paid a fine of “several million euros,” according to a Reuters report citing French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot.

Detained Russian “shadow fleet” tanker Grinch released by France after paying multimillion-euro fine

TL;DR

  • The oil tanker Grinch was released by French authorities after its owner paid a fine of "several million euros."
  • The tanker was intercepted in January under suspicion of being part of Russia's "shadow fleet" to bypass international sanctions.
  • The owner was fined for failing to establish the tanker's right to use the Comoros Islands flag.
  • International maritime law limits prolonged detention of vessels, often leading to their release after fines and inspections.
  • French President Emmanuel Macron intends to push for legislative changes to allow for the future arrest of such tankers.
  • A real solution for effectively dealing with "shadow fleet" tankers may require a new international convention, which is expected to be a lengthy process.

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