Russian President Vladimir Putin has threatened retaliatory action against European shipping after several European countries moved to seize Russian-linked vessels and sell their cargo.
Putin issued the warning on Wednesday as Russia continued naval exercises in the Far East, accusing European governments of engaging in what he described as “piracy and banditry.”
Several European countries have intercepted vessels suspected of transporting Russian oil in breach of sanctions imposed on Moscow. The measures are aimed at restricting one of Russia’s major sources of revenue.
Under sanctions approved by the European Union last month, member states can sell oil and other goods confiscated from the targeted vessels.
Moscow has strongly objected to the policy, with Putin warning that Russia would take countermeasures if European countries proceed with the seizures and sales.
“We will be forced to respond in kind,” Putin said while overseeing the naval drills.
He said Russia would determine the location and timing of any response, adding that Moscow could act “wherever we ourselves deem necessary and appropriate — anywhere.”
The warning comes amid heightened tensions between Russia and European governments over sanctions enforcement following Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine.
Swedish court documents obtained by AFP earlier this month indicated that Stockholm planned to hand over to Ukraine a Russian vessel that had been seized on suspicion of transporting grain from Ukrainian territory under Russian occupation.
Putin delivered his remarks aboard the Russian cruiser Varyag near Sakhalin, where the Russian navy was conducting military exercises.
The drills are being held shortly before joint military exercises involving the United States and South Korea, which are designed to prepare for a potential North Korean attack.
Security tensions in the region have also risen amid accusations from Kyiv and Seoul that Moscow and Pyongyang are expanding their military partnership.
Putin’s latest warning is likely to further increase tensions between Russia and European countries as disputes over sanctions, maritime seizures and the war in Ukraine continue.
