Yuzhno-sakhalinsk: Russian President Vladimir Putin declared on Wednesday that Russia would "respond in kind" to the seizure of its merchant vessels by EU countries, labeling such actions as "nothing more than piracy and robbery."

According to Anadolu Agency, Putin, dressed in navy blue military attire, addressed the servicemen of Russia's Pacific Fleet aboard the cruiser Varyag, the fleet's flagship vessel, in the Far Eastern region of Sakhalin. He asserted that some EU countries are attempting to restrict the movement of Russian merchant vessels, in violation of international maritime law, and considering seizing and selling them, which he described as theft.

Putin stated that Russia's response wouldn't necessarily take place in the waters where the seizures occur but could happen "wherever we deem necessary and appropriate, anywhere," including the Pacific. His remarks come as the EU continues to ramp up pressure on Russia's "shadow fleet," with sanctions expanding in recent months.

Arriving in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, the administrative center of the Far Eastern island, earlier on Wednesday, Putin participated in the final phase of a large-scale Pacific Fleet exercise that commenced on August 4. During his address, he emphasized the necessity of such exercises to maintain readiness and protect Russia's interests and security in the Asia-Pacific region, where he accused NATO of attempting infiltration.

Putin highlighted growing potential for conflict in the Asia-Pacific, with escalating tensions also noted in the Arctic region, particularly around the Northern Sea Route. He reiterated Russia's willingness to cooperate under international maritime law but expressed concern over plans to deploy new weapons systems in the region, which he views as a threat to Russia.

Additionally, Putin accused Japan of imposing "unprovoked" sanctions on Russia and maintained that Japan continues to assert territorial claims over the Kuril Islands. He reflected on the more constructive relations during former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's tenure, lamenting current changes in Japan's stance, which he claims were not provoked by Russia.

The territorial dispute between Japan and Russia over the southernmost Kuril islands-Iturup, Kunashir, Shikotan, and the Habomai islets-remains unresolved, preventing a peace treaty since World War II. Tensions have intensified recently with Japan's sanctions against Moscow amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict.