politics
February 22, 2026
European Commission prepares legal grounds to intercept Russian oil tankers
The potential measure raises concerns among several EU states over a military confrontation risk

TL;DR
- The European Commission is preparing legal grounds to intercept tankers transporting Russian oil.
- This action is part of the 20th sanctions package against Russia.
- The plan includes seeking permission to inspect tankers under their flags on the high seas.
- Several EU countries are concerned about the risk of a direct military confrontation at sea.
- Russia and other countries are unlikely to recognize the lawfulness of using force under EU sanctions.
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