Dublin: Russia has issued a strong warning over Ireland’s proposed legislation to expand the operational powers of the Defence Forces in Irish waters, cautioning that any attempt to board or intercept vessels linked to Russia’s so-called “Shadow Fleet” could have “serious consequences”.
In an interview with the Russian newspaper Izvestia, Russian Ambassador to Ireland Yury Filatov criticised the proposed Defence (Amendment) Bill 2026, which would give the Defence Forces enhanced powers to board vessels within Ireland’s maritime zones, inspect documents and cargo, and direct ships to alter their course where necessary.
Russia Accuses Ireland of Supporting Sanctions Enforcement
Filatov claimed the proposed legislation suggests Ireland is preparing to join efforts by Western countries to intercept vessels allegedly involved in circumventing international sanctions against Russia.
He described such actions as “piracy” and warned they would carry “the most serious consequences”.
The ambassador also claimed Ireland would require assistance from the British and French navies to stop or detain vessels due to limited naval resources. The Izvestia report incorrectly stated that the legislation had already come into force on July 24, although the Bill is still progressing through the legislative process.
The report further argued that Ireland’s strategic location along key Atlantic shipping routes makes it an important part of Western efforts to monitor vessels operating in Russia’s interests.
The Defence (Amendment) Bill 2026, introduced in the Dáil in June, proposes to amend the Defence Act 1954 by granting the Defence Forces explicit legal authority to board, inspect and, where necessary, redirect ships suspected of engaging in illegal activities within Ireland’s territorial waters and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
Government Says Changes Are Needed
Defence Minister Helen McEntee has defended the proposed legislation, saying it is necessary to address emerging security threats in Irish waters, particularly those linked to vessels associated with Russia’s “Shadow Fleet”.
She said recent incidents in the Baltic Sea and the activities of such vessels underline the need for Ireland to have an appropriate legal framework to respond effectively.
“The current legislation does not explicitly provide the Defence Forces with maritime enforcement powers,” McEntee said.
She added that the proposed amendments would close that gap by clearly defining the Defence Forces’ role in protecting Ireland’s maritime domain while ensuring full compliance with international law.
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