EU Sanctions Allow Sale of Seized Russian Cargo; Putin Threatens Retaliation

The European Union has enacted new sanctions allowing member states to sell cargo seized from Russian "shadow fleet" vessels. This move targets a crucial revenue stream for Russia, as oil is a vital export. Several European nations have recently intercepted ships carrying Russian oil in violation of EU sanctions.

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We will be forced to take corresponding counter-measures.

President Vladimir Putin strongly condemned the EU's decision, labeling it "piracy and robbery." Speaking during a naval exercise inspection in Russia's Far East, Putin vowed that Moscow would "be forced to take corresponding counter-measures" and would act "wherever we deem it necessary and appropriate."

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We will act wherever we deem it necessary and appropriate.

Further complicating the situation, a Swedish court document revealed that Sweden will transfer a seized Russian vessel, suspected of transporting grain from occupied Ukrainian territories, to Kyiv. In response, Russia's Pacific Fleet commander, Viktor Liina, stated that his forces are prepared to "inspect and detain" vessels belonging to unfriendly countries and their shadow fleets. He added that a coordinated interdepartmental mechanism is in place for such operations, and his fleet has analyzed maritime transport in the Asia-Pacific region, possessing detailed information on routes, cargo, and vessel ownership.

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We have the capability to inspect and detain ships belonging to unfriendly countries and their shadow fleet.