Russia Condemns EU Plan for Warships to Stop ‘Shadow Fleet’ Vessels in Mediterranean
Russia has condemned an EU decision to authorise EU military vessels in the Mediterranean to stop and inspect foreign ships suspected of being part of a “shadow fleet” transporting Russian oil. The move, announced by the European Union on Monday, expands the mandate of Operation IRINI, its naval mission in the Mediterranean that was originally set up to enforce a U.N. arms embargo on Libya.
The EU’s decision has been met with strong opposition from Russia, which claims that the move poses a threat to maritime security and accuses the EU of intimidating civilian vessels. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated that there is no such thing in international law as a “shadow fleet“, and this term is a “political fabrication” by the EU.
EU’s Operation IRINI Expanded to Enforce U.N. Arms Embargo on Libya
The European Union’s naval mission, Operation IRINI, was originally set up to enforce a U.N. arms embargo on Libya. The expanded mandate of the operation will now also allow for the inspection and potential seizure of vessels suspected of being part of a “shadow fleet” transporting Russian oil. The move is seen as an attempt by the EU to crack down on illegal oil shipments from Russia, which have been a major concern in recent years.
Russia Vows to Protect Maritime Security and Legitimate Interests of Shippers
Russia has vowed to take all necessary legal and other measures to protect maritime security and the legitimate interests of shippers and shipowners. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated that the EU’s decision is a “flagrant violation of international law” and that Russia will not stand idly by while its vessels are intimidated or seized.
International Community Reacts to EU’s Decision
The international community has been quick to react to the EU’s decision, with many countries expressing concern over the potential implications for maritime security. The United States, in particular, has been vocal in its opposition to the move, citing concerns about the potential impact on global oil supplies and the stability of the Mediterranean region.
In conclusion, the EU’s decision to expand the mandate of Operation IRINI has sparked a major controversy between Russia and the European Union. While the EU sees the move as a necessary step to enforce international law and protect maritime security, Russia views it as an attempt to intimidate its vessels and undermine its legitimate interests. The international community is closely watching the situation, with many countries expressing concern over the potential implications for global oil supplies and regional stability.
Original Article: Russia condemns EU plan for warships to stop ‘shadow fleet’ vessels in Mediterranean | Reuters — Reuters