Russian President Vladimir Putin has threatened retaliation after Western countries seized commercial vessels linked to Russia, calling the actions “piracy” and a violation of international law.

He warned that Russia could respond anywhere it considers necessary, potentially including the Pacific.

Russia’s Pacific Fleet says it is prepared to inspect and detain commercial ships connected to countries Moscow considers unfriendly.

The West has targeted hundreds of Russian-linked “shadow fleet” vessels suspected of helping Russia evade sanctions and transport oil, the AP has reported.

Russian officials have suggested they could expand military operations against European commercial vessels, raising concerns about a broader escalation at sea.