Kathmandu— Russian President Vladimir Putin threatened reciprocal vessel seizures on Wednesday, stating that Russia would respond in kind if European nations move forward with plans to intercept and seize commercial ships suspected of carrying Russian cargo. The warning came while Putin observed naval drills aboard a Russian cruiser off the Pacific island of Sakhalin, as several European countries have begun intercepting vessels linked to Moscow’s “shadow fleet” and violating sanctions. He characterized any such seizures as ‘piracy and robbery,’ and indicated instructions had been given to Russia's Ministry of Defence.

Escalating Sanctions Dispute

Putin’s statement follows the implementation of new European Union sanctions last month, which permit member states to sell seized cargo from ships suspected of circumventing restrictions on Russian trade. He accused some countries of attempting to restrict the movement of vessels belonging to Russian economic operators and suggested a plan to seize Russian assets. “If these plans are put into practice, we will have to respond in kind,” Putin said, according to Russia’s RIA Novosti news agency.

Naval Readiness

The Russian leader stated that he had already issued “relevant instructions” to the Ministry of Defence and Pacific Fleet. This suggests a preparation for potential retaliatory actions at sea, mirroring any seizures carried out by European nations. The Pacific Fleet is responsible for Russia’s maritime military interests in the region.

Regional Security Concerns

Putin also expressed concerns about NATO's increasing presence in the Asia-Pacific region and heightened tensions in the Arctic. He claimed that NATO is making inroads into the area, forming new military blocs, and deploying weapons systems perceived as threats to Russia. These exercises precede joint US-South Korean war games simulating a potential invasion from North Korea.

North Korea's Role

The warning comes amid growing accusations of increased military cooperation between Russia and North Korea. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently accused Russia of using North Korean missiles in attacks on Ukraine, adding that Moscow is receiving ballistic projectiles and troops from Pyongyang. Kim Jong Un has reportedly sent thousands of troops and weapons to support Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Russia's naval exercises are currently underway in the West Pacific, further highlighting the escalating tensions in the region as international actors navigate complex sanctions regimes and geopolitical challenges.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.