Italian Navy Intercepts Russian Shadow Fleet Tanker in Mediterranean
The Italian Navy, as part of the European Union's Operation EUNAVFOR MED IRINI, boarded a tanker from the Russian 'shadow fleet' in international waters near Pantelleria. The tanker, Toa Payoh, was intercepted for inspection due to its association with EU sanctions. Sailing under the flag of Cameroon, the tanker initially did not cooperate, prompting Italian military personnel to board the vessel via helicopter. The operation, supported by a Greek ship and a Polish patrol aircraft, was conducted in compliance with international maritime law, specifically Article 110 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.