Italian Navy Boards Sanctioned Russian Tanker Near Pantelleria

The Italian Navy boarded the Toa Payoh, a Russian shadow fleet tanker sailing under a Cameroon flag, in international waters west of Pantelleria on August 2, 2026. The operation was executed by the vessel Thaon di Revel as part of the European Union's EUNAVFOR MED IRINI mission, which monitors oil and arms trafficking in the Mediterranean.

After the tanker's master initially refused to cooperate, Italian military personnel boarded the ship via helicopter to verify its nationality and flag registration. The two-hour inspection was supported by a Polish maritime patrol aircraft and a Greek vessel. The Toa Payoh was traveling from Cotonou, Benin, to Istanbul and is currently subject to European Union sanctions.

Italian authorities are reviewing the documentation obtained during the boarding. Defense Minister Guido Crosetto praised the professionalism and resolve of the service personnel involved, stating that the activity demonstrates Italy's contribution to Mediterranean security and European Union actions.