Russia warns EU of "boomerang" effect over shadow fleet vessel seizures

Russia has warned the European Union that its efforts to detain vessels linked to Moscow’s so-called “shadow fleet” could backfire by disrupting global shipping and driving up oil prices.

Artem Studennikov, head of the Russian Foreign Ministry’s First European Department, told RIA Novosti that the detention of such vessels by EU countries undermines freedom of navigation and international trade.

He argued that the measures could contribute to higher oil prices, establish “undesirable precedents” and ultimately have a “boomerang” effect on European countries themselves.

Studennikov also accused European governments of engaging in what he described as “brazen manipulation” of international law.

His remarks come amid growing tensions over European efforts to target vessels allegedly used to transport Russian oil in an attempt to circumvent Western sanctions.

On August 12, Russian President Vladimir Putin described the seizure of Russian vessels by European countries as piracy and warned that Moscow could respond with similar measures. Putin said Russia would determine the location and nature of any potential retaliation.

Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev went further, claiming that Moscow has the “right” to attack vessels belonging to unfriendly countries if they transport cargo “in the interests of the enemy.”

Several European countries have detained tankers since the beginning of the year as part of efforts to enforce sanctions and disrupt Russia’s oil trade.