LONDON — France on Saturday intercepted and seized a Russian vessel in the English Channel in line with new EU sanctions against Moscow, according to multiple media reports.

Cargo ship bound for St. Petersburg was being transported by cars. French sea police directed the vessel towards Boulognesur-Mer, northern France.

According to Reuters Captain Veronique Magin, French Maritime Prefecture said that it is strongly suspected to be linked to Russian interests. There are also reports that the vessel is owned and controlled by a Russian businessman, who is listed on the EU’s sanctioned individuals list.

According to reports, the vessel was called “Baltic Leader”, and crew members were cooperative with authorities.

The Russian RIA news agency saidThe Russian Embassy in France immediately reached out to the French authorities seeking clarification.