Britain has rejected Putin’s accusations of “piracy” over the seizure of the Russian tanker Smyrtos.

London declared the seizure of the Russian shadow fleet tanker Smyrtos entirely legal and rejected Vladimir Putin’s accusations of “piracy.” The British side also responded to the Russian leader’s threats to “mirror” similar actions.

The BBC reports this.

During Russian naval exercises in the Pacific Ocean, Putin accused the West of “seizing Russian vessels” and called such actions “piracy and banditry.” He stated that Russia could respond “in kind” anywhere in the world and at a time Moscow deemed necessary.

Russian Pacific Fleet Commander Viktor Liina also stated that Russian forces are ready to inspect and detain vessels of “unfriendly states.” At the same time, he accused Britain and France of using their own “shadow fleets.”

The British government noted that London is opposing shadow navy vessels and their activities, which help Russia finance the war against Ukraine.

A British government spokesman stated that the country’s armed forces and law enforcement officers acted “in full compliance with international law.” He added that, unlike the Russian shadow fleet, British military and merchant vessels operate within the framework of international maritime law.

The UK Ministry of Defence notes that Russia’s shadow fleet comprises over 700 vessels, transporting approximately 75% of Russia’s sanctioned oil. The ministry notes that this revenue is a significant source of funding for Russia’s war against Ukraine.