Russia threatens retaliation over vessel seizures

Russian President Vladimir Putin warned on Wednesday that Russia would respond in kind if European countries begin seizing Russian merchant vessels, calling such actions 'piracy and robbery.' The warning came as the European Union expands sanctions against Russia's so-called shadow fleet, detaining ships and crews for checks. Viktor Liina, commander of Russia's Pacific Fleet, stated his forces were ready to 'inspect and detain' foreign vessels from hostile states, citing Britain and France as examples. The Russian Foreign Ministry accused the EU of abusing its naval operation Operation Irini to conduct unlawful inspections, citing an Italy-led boarding of a Russian shadow fleet tanker. The escalating rhetoric raises tensions over maritime enforcement and sanctions evasion.