Dr. Moritz Brake first emphasized that, during the seizure of the Russian tanker, an escalation was virtually impossible, despite the presence of a Russian submarine. The United States had relied on a legal basis that allowed them to first verify the vessel’s flag status and, should any doubts arise, to proceed with a seizure.
Fundamentally, both Europeans and Americans are well aware that the Russian Navy operates in the Atlantic; however, it is crucial that these operations are closely monitored. This is already being done, but, according to Dr. Brake, monitoring must be maintained and, if necessary, expanded.
Furthermore, Dr. Brake stressed that European states could and should take similar measures against ships of the Russian shadow fleet. He justifies this both on the grounds of environmental and occupational safety standards and as a matter of credibility. If Europe wishes to remain an equal and credible partner of the United States, it must consistently safeguard both its own and American security interests. Allowing Russia to continue transporting oil through European ports and waters would undermine Europe’s credibility. The message that now needs to be sent, he emphasized, is clear: “We will not tolerate Russia’s behavior!”