French special forces seize Russian tanker off French coast

Ship suspected of involvement in launching drones over Europe

French special forces conducted a special operation in the English Channel, during which a Russian tanker was seized. According to the newspaper Exclusif, The vessel may be involved in the launch of reconnaissance drones, which have been spotted over the territory of several European countries in recent weeks.

Details of the operation

• The tanker was intercepted off the coast of France.

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• The crew was detained for inspection.

• Searches are being conducted on board, and the French special services are looking for equipment to control the UAV.

Why it matters

Recently, France and the Benelux countries have seen a series of unidentified drones near strategic facilities. According to preliminary data, they could be controlled from ships in international waters.

Government response

The French Ministry of Defence has not yet officially commented on the operation. Sources in the security forces said that it was a «threat to national security and EU security».