Vladimir Putin warns of retaliation if Western nations seize Russian commercial vessels

Russian President Vladimir Putin warned on Wednesday that Russia will take retaliatory action if Western countries attempt to seize Russian commercial or oil vessels. The warning comes in response to new European Union measures targeting the shadow fleet, which is used to transport Russian goods while circumventing international sanctions. Putin described the EU's authorization to sell seized cargo as an act of piracy and theft.

Putin stated that Russia's response would not necessarily be limited to the specific maritime regions where any potential seizures might take place. He indicated that Russia could choose to act wherever it deems necessary and appropriate, potentially involving areas under the responsibility of the Russian Pacific Fleet. The Russian government maintains that it has the right to protect its trade interests against these enforcement actions.