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France Releases Oil Tanker GRINCH After ‘Several Million Euro’ Penalty for Sanctions Evasion

French authorities released the oil tanker GRINCH after its owner paid a multi‑million‑euro penalty for sanctions evasion. The vessel, seized in the Alboran Sea in January, was suspected of operating under a false Comoros flag as part of Russia’s shadow fleet that circumvents EU oil sanctions. The penalty underscores France’s willingness to enforce sanctions and deter illicit oil shipments supporting Russia’s war. Foreign Minister Jean‑Noël Barrot said the move signals that Russia can no longer finance its conflict through ghost fleets off European coasts.