Cameroon has officially protested the use of its flag by two Russian oil tankers intercepted this month. The vessels, part of a “shadow fleet,” were detected off the coasts of France and the English Channel. Authorities suspect Russia is utilizing these tankers to circumvent international sanctions imposed due to the war in Ukraine, and to continue selling its oil. The use of the Cameroonian flag allows the tankers to obscure their origins and potentially avoid scrutiny. This practice enables Moscow to finance its military operations through illicit oil sales. Cameroon denies authorizing these vessels to fly its flag and is investigating the matter, seeking to protect its maritime reputation. The interceptions highlight ongoing efforts to disrupt Russia’s attempts to bypass sanctions.