Russia has warned the Netherlands of possible retaliatory measures after the Dutch government proposed legislation allowing authorities to detain and inspect vessels classified as part of the so-called Russian shadow fleet.

The Russian Embassy in the Netherlands responded to the initiative in a post on X, questioning whether The Hague was prepared for Moscow’s response. The diplomatic mission stressed that Russia reserves the right to take reciprocal action against hostile measures targeting its ships, using whatever methods it considers appropriate.

The embassy also warned foreign governments against interpreting Russia’s patience as a sign of weakness, referring to the position previously outlined by the Russian president.

The warning followed the Dutch government’s submission of a bill to the lower house of parliament on October 9. The proposed amendments to the Foreign Ships Act would authorize Dutch authorities to intercept vessels in the country’s exclusive economic zone and order them to undergo further inspections.

Under the proposed legislation, ships could be instructed to proceed to a designated anchorage or port for examination. Authorities would then have the power to detain the vessel and arrest its captain.

The bill would also increase the maximum prison sentence for sailing under a false flag of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to four years.

These additional enforcement powers would become available only if the Dutch parliament approves the legislation.

The Dutch government argues that vessels it identifies as belonging to Russia’s shadow fleet are used to circumvent sanctions and frequently operate without a flag or under a false flag.

Dutch officials have also raised concerns about maritime safety and environmental risks. According to the government’s assessment, aging tankers without valid insurance could cause accidents, while the absence of adequate insurance coverage would make compensation for resulting damage more difficult.

The legislative proposal comes amid the Netherlands' efforts to strengthen measures against vessels it associates with Russia’s shadow fleet, while Moscow has made clear that hostile actions against Russian ships could trigger reciprocal measures.