I strongly dislike the notion that "International Law" is a meaningful thing. It's always been might makes right and international law is a barely disguised cudgel for powerful nations to use against the less powerful. There's no such thing as "legal" or "illegal" territory. If you can defend it and collect taxes it's yours regardless of what anyone else says, and if they have a problem their only recourse is economic or military warfare to force you out of the territory.
I strongly dislike the notion that "International Law" is a meaningful thing. It's always been might makes right and international law is a barely disguised cudgel for powerful nations to use against the less powerful. There's no such thing as "legal" or "illegal" territory. If you can defend it and collect taxes it's yours regardless of what anyone else says, and if they have a problem their only recourse is economic or military warfare to force you out of the territory.
oh this is in breach of international law? call a cop