The Russian Foreign Ministry strongly condemned France's seizure of the oil tanker as an act of piracy.

Russia's Foreign Ministry Condemns France: Seizure of Tanker a "Pirate Act"

Artem Stuzhenkov, head of the European Department at Russia's Foreign Ministry, accused France of committing "sea robbery" and "piracy" in its seizure of tankers from Russia's so-called "shadow fleet" during an interview with RIA Novosti.

Stuzhenkov revealed that since last September, the French Navy has seized five vessels flying different flags. He described the French operational pattern: seizing oil tankers, escorting them to French ports, collecting "fines," then releasing them.

He pointed out that the EU has, in its 21st round of sanctions against Russia, effectively granted itself the right to detain—and even "steal"—oil being transported.

"In short, this is ordinary sea robbery, pure piracy," Stuzhenkov said. He claimed France's real motive was to undermine Russian oil exports and harm Russia's economy.

Previously, French President Macron announced the detention of a Russian-origin tanker in the Atlantic Ocean. The Russian Embassy in France stated that the ship's captain might be a Russian citizen. Kremlin spokesperson Peskov also noted that France's seizure of the tanker "Tagor" was "borderline piracy."

Original: toutiao.com/article/1874727953723460/

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