The Russian oil tanker "Grinch," suspected of being part of Russia's "ghost fleet" used to circumvent Western sanctions, has been released from immobilization in Fos-sur-Mer, France, after its owner paid a significant fine. The vessel was dramatically intercepted by French marine commandos on January 22nd in international waters and escorted to France. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot stated that the tanker will depart French waters after "several million euros" were paid, emphasizing that evading European sanctions has a cost and that Russia will no longer finance its war effort with its ghost fleet unimpeded. The owner has committed to obtaining a new flag for the ship, which was flying the Comoros flag. This operation follows a similar interception of the tanker "Boracay" in September, as France aims to increase pressure on Russia's shadow fleet, which comprises approximately 598 vessels sanctioned by the EU.