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

European Commission prepares legal grounds to intercept Russian oil tankers

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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