The Duran Podcast EU sanctions addiction, seizing Russian ships
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Feb 1, 2026 Discussion of the EU preparing a 20th sanctions package targeting Russia's maritime shadow fleet and money flows. Debate over reflagging, naval escorts and the legal and military risks of seizing tankers at sea. Conversation about Russia’s countermeasures, shifting trade to Asia, and the wider geopolitical effects involving China, India and EU-US alignment.
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EU Escalation Risks Backfiring
- The EU keeps escalating sanctions against Russia, now preparing a 20th package aimed at the so-called shadow fleet and money laundering channels.
- Alexander Mercouris argues these measures target non-Western trade and risk dangerous escalation without delivering decisive results.
Russia Adapts Shipping And Markets
- Rebranding tanker registrations and providing naval escorts neutralizes many Western attempts to stop Russian oil exports.
- Patrick Henningsen and Alexander stress Russia can redirect trade to Asia and withstand Western pressure while global buyers adapt.
High-Seas Seizures Escalate Military Risk
- Seizing ships on the high seas raises legal questions and risks naval clashes unless backed militarily by the U.S.
- Alexander warns Europe lacks the capacity and U.S. appetite to enforce such measures safely.