Senior Russian Official Warns Navy Deployment If West Seizes Oil Tankers or 'Shadow Fleet' Ships

Moscow. A senior Russian official has warned that the Russian Navy will be deployed if Western countries attempt to seize Russian oil shipments or so-called 'shadow fleet' vessels under the guise of sanctions, according to a warning issued by a senior Russian official. This reaction came from Nikolai Patrushev, an ally of the Kremlin and a close associate of President Vladimir Putin.

According to Patrushev, it is necessary for Russia to send a strong message targeting the UK, France, and the Baltic states. He asserted that the navy is the most reliable means of ensuring maritime security and also accused Western countries of treating Russian ships like pirates.

He claimed that Western powers are targeting Russia's significant maritime trade, noting that the export of oil, grain, and fertilizer is essential for the operation of Russia's economy. Emphasizing the need for a permanent, strong military presence in various maritime areas, Patrushev also signaled that the Russian Navy could be deployed to distant sea areas if necessary.

He also accused the NATO alliance of planning to blockade Kaliningrad, a Russian territory in the Baltic Sea. He stated that the navy would lift any blockade if a diplomatic or peaceful solution is not reached. 

This statement comes at a time when Russia-West relations are becoming increasingly tense. Following the Ukraine war, Western countries have imposed strict sanctions on Russian oil and maritime trade, signaling that international maritime security and geopolitical tension will further escalate.