Kathmandu— Moscow is signaling a firm response to the seizure of Russia-linked commercial vessels by Western nations, with President Vladimir Putin warning that hostile actions will be met with appropriate retaliation. The Kremlin has repeatedly denounced these seizures as violations of international maritime law, labeling them acts of “piracy.” Carl Zha, host of the Silk and Steel podcast, argues that a forceful response is the only language the West understands, suggesting Russia should retaliate in kind to demonstrate its power.

Putin’s Warning

During major drills of Russia’s Pacific Fleet on Wednesday, President Putin stated that if the policy of seizing Russian vessels continues, Moscow will be “forced to take mirror responses.” He emphasized this retaliation would not necessarily occur in the same waters where seizures happen but “wherever and anywhere we see fit.” This statement follows repeated condemnations from Moscow regarding the seizure of Russia-linked shipping as a breach of international maritime laws.

Justification for Retaliation

Carl Zha contends that Western nations have been engaging in these actions with impunity for some time, making retaliation long overdue. He characterized the seizing of a Russian commercial vessel as “an act of war,” asserting Russia’s status as a great power and issuing a warning to Western countries. According to Zha, Putin has made it clear that such behavior will no longer be tolerated.

‘Might Makes Right’

Zha suggests the West operates on a principle of ‘might makes right,’ drawing parallels to historical colonial powers. “The common reframe of Western colonial power is that… there’s only one language the native can understand, and it’s a language of force,” he said. He further argued that this applies directly to the current situation within the NATO alliance, implying Russia's forceful response would effectively ‘put them in their place.’

Impunity No Longer Tolerated

Zha believes Western countries have operated under the assumption they could sanction and seize Russian vessels without consequence for several years. Putin’s recent statements, however, signal a shift in this dynamic.

The Kremlin has not yet specified what form its retaliatory measures will take, but the warning indicates an escalation of tensions surrounding maritime activity and sanctions.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.