Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that Russia may seize Western merchant ships if Western countries continue operations against ships linked to Russia's so-called "shadow fleet."
During a meeting with Pacific Fleet commanders, Putin described the actions against Russian ships as "piracy and robbery," warning that Moscow could respond "wherever" it deems appropriate.
According to the commander of the Pacific Fleet, from April 24 to August 6, 1,001 ships passed through the Russian exclusive economic zone, of which 379 carried flags of countries that Moscow considers unfriendly.
Britain and France have launched operations against ships suspected of helping Russia circumvent sanctions on oil exports.
Moscow rejects the term "shadow fleet" and claims that Western measures violate Russia's right to legitimate maritime trade. Putin's warning raises concerns about a further escalation in international maritime traffic.
