An oil tanker that France suspected of being part of a Russian shadow fleet has been released from arrest. The news was reported by the Reuters news agency. The tanker was detained by the French Navy in the Mediterranean Sea about a month ago, during which the French authorities raised concerns that the vessel was being used by Russia to circumvent international sanctions and was sailing under a false flag.

The French government's suspicion stemmed from the increasing reports of Russian vessels attempting to evade sanctions imposed in response to the ongoing conflict involving Ukraine. The practice of using shadow fleets, where ships disguise their true ownership and purpose, has become increasingly common in the maritime industry, complicating international efforts to enforce sanctions and track illicit activities.

The release of the oil tanker raises questions about the effectiveness of maritime law enforcement and the challenges in addressing maritime security threats posed by such practices. As tensions remain high due to geopolitical issues, this incident highlights the difficulties authorities face in navigating international maritime laws while confronting the complexities of modern shipping operations.