Putin says Russia will mirror Western seizures of civilian ships

This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.
President Vladimir Putin said Russia will respond in kind to Western attempts to detain civilian vessels anywhere in the world's oceans. Speaking at the Valdai Discussion Club, he said Moscow may act in the Baltic, Atlantic, Pacific, or Indian oceans. Putin added that Russia strictly adheres to international maritime law.
Key Facts
- Putin said Russia will act in a mirror-like manner in response to Western attempts to detain civilian ships anywhere in the world's oceans.
- He named the Baltic, Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian oceans as possible areas of action.
- Putin stated that Russia strictly adheres to international maritime law.
- He described Western behavior at sea as aggressive.
Mirror Response
Putin announced the policy at the plenary session of the Valdai Discussion Club. He said the world's oceans are not limited to the Baltic and North Atlantic regions. Russia may act in the Baltic, Atlantic, Pacific, or Indian oceans, wherever it is more advantageous. Putin questioned who needs such actions, saying no one does.
Maritime Law Stance
Putin emphasized that Moscow strictly follows international maritime law. He called Western behavior at sea aggressive. Earlier, Putin said an attack on Kaliningrad would trigger the use of Russia's entire weapons arsenal.