High-ranking Kremlin officials threaten naval retaliation as European nations intensify efforts to intercept Russian ships evading sanctions.
Russia Warns of Naval Response
A high-ranking Kremlin representative suggested that Russia could respond with its navy if European countries intensify the seizure and boarding of Russian ships in the Baltic Sea. The threat comes as European countries consider more direct actions against the so-called Russian shadow fleet.
In recent months, France, Germany, Finland, and Italy have conducted inspections of vessels suspected of evading Russian sanctions in ports.
Kremlin Calls European Actions “Piracy”
Nikolai Patrushev, an advisor to Vladimir Putin, described European countries’ actions as “piracy” in an interview with the Russian newspaper “Arguments and Facts.” He warned that without determined resistance, European nations might attempt to completely block Russia’s access to seas.
Understanding the “Shadow Fleet”
The shadow fleet refers to a group of ships, primarily tankers, that Russia uses to circumvent international sanctions, especially those related to oil transport. These vessels typically fly false flags to conceal their true ownership and origin.
France Releases Detained Russian Tanker
On Tuesday, France released a Russian tanker from its shadow fleet that had been detained in January. French authorities confirmed that the vessel’s owner paid a substantial financial penalty for violations including operating under an inappropriate flag.
“Grinch” Tanker Allowed to Depart After Fine
The French foreign minister announced that the tanker “Grinch” left French territorial waters after its owner paid several million euros in fines. “Russia will no longer be able to finance the war with impunity using a shadow fleet off the coast of France,” wrote Jean-Noël Barrot on social media.
The vessel, which was flying under the flag of Comoros, was intercepted in waters between Africa and Spain during a joint operation with British authorities. It appears under a different name on US and EU sanction lists.
