Moscow, Russia – Russia announced it is considering all available legal options to respond to any British move to sell a shipment of Russian crude oil that was aboard a tanker seized by British authorities earlier this month.
This is a new development that could further escalate tensions between Moscow and London.
The Kremlin threatens to resort to the courts
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Moscow would analyze the legal situation arising from the seizure of the oil tanker Smirtos.
He also confirmed that Russian authorities would use all available legal means if Britain proceeded with the sale of the detained cargo.
Peskov added that potential legal action could target those making the decision to sell,
as well as parties involved in the purchase or marketing of the oil.
Furthermore, he emphasized that Russia would defend its interests by all possible legal means.
Britain is considering selling the seized shipment
The Russian statements come after media reports that the British government is considering organizing
an auction to sell about 100,000 tons of Russian crude oil on board the tanker “Smirtos.”
British forces intercepted the tanker in the English Channel on June 14.
According to reports, British authorities suspect that the tanker belongs to what is known as the Russian “shadow fleet.”
This network of ships is used by Moscow to transport oil away
from Western restrictions and sanctions imposed on it since the outbreak of war in Ukraine.
A new dispute over sanctions against Russia
Reports indicated that potential proceeds from the sale of the shipment may be used to support Ukraine.
Thus, this adds a new political dimension to the issue and increases its sensitivity for Moscow.
This development reflects the continuing confrontation between Russia and Western countries
regarding the implementation of economic sanctions imposed on Moscow.
In the same context, European governments are seeking to tighten control over Russian oil exports.
It also aims to prevent circumvention of sanctions through non-traditional maritime transport networks.
