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Belgium Seizes Russian Oil Tanker in North Sea Operation

3/4/2026

26 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Belgium's special forces seized the Russian oil tanker Ethera in the North Sea with support from French helicopters.
The Ethera sailed under a false Guinean flag.
Belgian authorities launched a criminal investigation and questioned the ship's Russian captain.
Prime Minister Bart De Wever praised the military actions.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy commended Belgium's enforcement of sanctions.

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Story summary

Belgium's special forces seized the Russian oil tanker Ethera in the North Sea with support from French helicopters.
The Ethera sailed under a false Guinean flag.
Belgian authorities launched a criminal investigation and questioned the ship's Russian captain.
Prime Minister Bart De Wever praised the military actions.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy commended Belgium's enforcement of sanctions.