French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Monday the seizure of the tanker “DF Peak” off the coast of Réunion Island. The vessel is suspected of being involved in illegal fuel transport activities and is believed to be part of Russia’s so-called “phantom fleet,” according to reports from BFMTV.
Macron stated that the DF Peak is “suspected of sailing under a false flag and is involved in illegal fuel transport activities.” He emphasized that France is determined to combat the phantom fleet of Russia wherever it may operate globally.
The seizure of the vessel took place more than 450 nautical miles south of Réunion. “This operation, conducted in accordance with international maritime law, demonstrates our commitment to uphold the rule of law and combat any form of illicit trafficking, wherever it may occur,” the French leader conveyed from the Élysée Palace. He also shared a video on X, showing the moment of the vessel’s boarding.
