Vladimir Putin’s chief propagandist has issued a threat to target Royal Navy warships following the UK’s decision to stop, intercept, and apprehend Russian shadow fleet vessels. Moscow has labeled this interdiction as “piracy,” with Russian state TV echoing Kremlin directives and hinting at potential missile attacks.
UK’s Labour leader, Keir Starmer, revealed that special forces have been authorized to intercept and detain Russian shadow fleet vessels, commonly utilized for smuggling sanctioned oil through the English Channel. In response, Putin’s spokesperson, Vladimir Solovyov, asserted that Russia will retaliate by sinking British Royal Navy ships involved in piracy activities.
Solovyov emphasized that Russia is obligated to combat piracy and warned of using aircraft and missiles against British vessels. He highlighted the reduced presence of the Royal Navy in global waters, questioning the UK’s naval capabilities after potential confrontations.
In a sarcastic tone, Solovyov mocked the Royal Navy’s vulnerability, suggesting that sinking a couple of British ships would severely diminish their naval power. The propagandist also pointed out that many of the Russian shadow fleet vessels are aged, uninsured, and not seaworthy.
Following the UK’s interception threat, some Russian vessels have altered their routes to avoid the English Channel, opting to sail through Irish-controlled waters instead. Concurrently, Ukraine has intensified its military strikes on Russia, causing concern among Putin’s supporters.
Drone strikes targeted the Azov Sea port Taganrog, causing casualties and damage in the Rostov region. Additionally, attacks on industrial facilities, including a metallurgical plant in Alchevsk and a chemical plant in Togliatti, have escalated tensions. The Ust-Luga oil port in Russia’s Leningrad region has been engulfed in flames for five days, severely impacting Putin’s oil revenue.
The series of strikes on Russian targets have significantly hampered Putin’s financial resources to sustain military operations.