Medvedev Announces Russia's Right to Attack Commercial Ships Carrying Enemy Cargo

Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of Russia's Security Council, wrote on Telegram that Russia is entitled to attack any commercial vessel in international waters if it is suspected of carrying goods for hostile states or entities. The statement follows President Vladimir Putin's pledge to retaliate against any seizure of Russian merchant ships worldwide, including the Pacific Ocean.

Statement details

Medvedev argued that the principle of "reciprocity" justifies targeting Western European ships that sometimes fly other nations' flags, viewing this as a breach of maritime law. He added that any cargo believed to benefit the enemy provides a legal basis for attack, regardless of its nature.

Pacific Fleet commander Viktor Leina also emphasized that Russia possesses all necessary resources and forces to detain vessels of unfriendly countries, highlighting the existence of a "shadow fleet" monitoring maritime traffic.

Background and implications

Medvedev's remarks come amid repeated European actions, notably by London and Paris, which have detained oil tankers alleged to belong to the so‑called Russian "shadow fleet." Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov criticized Britain for what he called piracy after it attempted to sell the seized tanker "Smyrtos".

These statements could heighten tensions in critical sea lanes and revive debate over the enforcement of international law on the high seas.