Shadow tanker accused of being Europe’s drone mothership
French Commandos Seize Tanker Linked to Drone Incidents
French commandos have captured the Boracay, an 18-year-old tanker believed to have connections to Russian activities, off the coast of Brest this week. This vessel has been identified as being present at the center of multiple drone incidents across northern Europe, including drone swarms that prompted shutdowns in Copenhagen and other areas in late September. The capture has heightened concerns regarding the potential use of shadow fleets in warfare.
Legal Proceedings and International Reactions
The Boracay, built in 2007, has changed ownership and flags multiple times in recent years, raising suspicions about its operations. French prosecutors announced that the ship’s captain will face trial in Brest on February 23, where he could face up to one year in prison and a hefty fine of €150,000 for failing to cooperate with authorities and clarify the vessel’s nationality.
Internationally, the situation has ignited a heated debate. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of utilizing such tankers to orchestrate drone attacks over European cities, a claim that seems increasingly credible. In response, Russian President Vladimir Putin ridiculed the allegations and condemned the seizure of the Boracay, labeling it as “piracy” committed in neutral waters.
Contrastingly, European leaders have taken a more serious stance. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk characterized the situation as a “new type of war,” emphasizing the urgency of addressing these drone incidents that threaten critical infrastructure. Poland has already intercepted drones, highlighting the escalating tensions in the region.
French President Emmanuel Macron also stressed the importance of cutting off the funding sources for Russia’s military operations, asserting that a significant portion of Russia’s war efforts is financed through shadow fleet operations. The capture of the Boracay may be just the beginning of a broader strategy to combat these threats to European security.
