- Putin warns that Moscow will be "forced to respond in kind" if European countries proceed with plans to seize Russian vessels, describing the measures as 'piracy and robbery'.
- The Defense Ministry has received instructions to prepare a response, indicating that Russia may act anywhere, including in the Pacific Fleet's area of responsibility.
- The EU introduced a mechanism in July allowing member states to confiscate and sell Russian oil from shadow fleet vessels attempting to evade sanctions.
- Several European companies have intercepted ships carrying Russian oil following fresh EU sanctions targeting this revenue source.
- France intercepted the tankers Grinch, Deyna, and Tagor, while Britain has held the Smyrtos since June 14, and Sweden detained Caffa in March.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a stern warning to Europe, stating that Moscow will retaliate if European nations proceed with plans to seize Russian vessels, which he described as "piracy and robbery." Putin's remarks were made during military exercises in Sakhalin, highlighting the escalating tensions in the region.
The European Union has recently introduced measures allowing member states to confiscate and sell Russian oil transported by vessels attempting to evade sanctions. This includes a mechanism targeting the so-called "shadow fleet" of Russian ships. Putin emphasized that if these measures are enacted, Russia's response will not be limited to the waters where the seizures occur, stating, "We will not necessarily act in the waters where raids on our ships and vessels are being planned, but wherever we ourselves consider it necessary and appropriate."
The Russian Defense Ministry has been instructed to prepare a response, with Pacific Fleet Commander Viktor Liina noting that they have conducted a "detailed analysis" of maritime traffic in the Asia-Pacific region. He reported that 1,001 vessels passed through Russia's exclusive economic zone along the Kuril Islands between April 24 and August 6, including 379 flagged from countries deemed "unfriendly" by Moscow.
The EU's actions have already led to the interception of several vessels, including the MV South Star and others carrying Russian oil. Putin's warning underscores the potential for further escalation in maritime tensions as both sides prepare for possible confrontations.
“Putin's warning follows EU's July mechanism to confiscate and sell Russian oil from shadow fleet vessels, part of the 21st sanctions package. Pacific Fleet Commander Viktor Liina reported 1,001 vessels passed through Russia's exclusive economic zone near the Kuril Islands, including 379 from 'unfriendly' countries.”
The Moscow Times
