Pakistan, Aug. 12 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin warned Western countries against seizing Russian commercial vessels, calling such actions maritime piracy.

Speaking during naval exercises in Sakhalin, Putin said Russia would respond similarly if European countries seized Russian commercial ships.

Read more: Putin warns of retaliation over seized ships

He said Russia would act wherever it considers necessary and appropriate. Putin also accused Western countries of restricting the movement of Russian vessels.

The Russian president said NATO was expanding its involvement in the Asia-Pacific region. He also accused Western countries of increasing tensions in the Arctic.

Putin's remarks follow several recent incidents involving vesse...