Several Western governments have in recent months intercepted or detained vessels they accuse of helping Russia evade sanctions and restrictions on its oil exports.
Russian President, Vladimir Putin, has warned that Moscow could seize Western commercial vessels in retaliation for the interception of Russian-linked ships, saying such actions could take place anywhere Russia considers necessary.
Putin issued the warning on Wednesday during a meeting with commanders of Russia’s Pacific Fleet, according RT, as tensions escalate over Western efforts to disrupt maritime trade allegedly linked to Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet.”
Several Western governments have in recent months intercepted or detained vessels they accuse of helping Russia evade sanctions and restrictions on its oil exports.
Putin condemned the actions, describing them as violations of international maritime law and warning that Russia would respond if Western governments continued with the seizures.
