Kremlin Calls Tanker Seizure 'Piracy'

The Kremlin denounced France's seizure of the Russian oil tanker Tagor as illegal and akin to piracy. Despite French President Macron's assurances of adhering to maritime law, Russia plans measures to secure its shipping and hinted at potential retaliation if its vessels are captured.

On Monday, the Kremlin criticized France's seizure of the Russian oil tanker Tagor, labeling the act as illegal and on the verge of piracy.

The French navy intervened and redirected the vessel on Sunday. French President Emmanuel Macron justified the move, stating the tanker was under international sanctions, and the action was consistent with maritime law.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov disputed this claim, asserting that international law was not observed. He mentioned that Russia intends to implement measures to protect its shipping interests. Earlier, a Kremlin aide indicated that Russia might deploy its navy for protection and could retaliate against European ships if Russian vessels are seized.