The European Commission’s proposed 20th sanctions package includes a controversial plan to intercept and inspect tankers transporting Russian oil on the high seas. According to diplomatic sources, Brussels is negotiating with flag states to secure permission to stop vessels suspected of violating sanctions, effectively laying the groundwork for seizing both ships and cargo.

However, the initiative has sparked alarm among several EU member states, who fear such aggressive enforcement could escalate into a direct military confrontation at sea. Diplomats warn that Russia and other nations will reject the unilateral move as unlawful, raising the stakes significantly. What was intended as a financial squeeze now risks becoming a naval standoff, leaving EU countries uneasy about the potential for open conflict over oil shipments.

janus