Russian military pursues USS Arleigh Burke guided missile destroyer after entering Black Seato patrol with NATO allies. This was reported by TASS, citing the Russian Ministry of Defense.
The maneuver comes amid tensions in the region, with Russia, Ukraine and NATO holding military exercises in recent weeks, and Moscow denying suspicions by Kiev and Washington that it is considering an invasion of Ukraine.
Fighters and ships of Russia with military exercises in the Black Sea
Sukhoi fighters were among the planes rehearsing how to respond to enemy air attacks
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The US Sixth Fleet said the USS Arleigh Burke entered the Black Sea on a routine patrol a day after Russia announced it had conducted military exercises involving planes and ships.
“While in the Black Sea, the ship will operate together with NATO allies and partners in the region, working together to ensure security and stability in this vital international waterway“, said in a statement.
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Ukraine warned: Russia will pay dearly for the invasion
Kiev did everything to deter the Kremlin
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Ukraine has leaned toward the West and moved away from Moscow’s orbit since 2014, when pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovych was ousted following mass protests. It is not a member of NATO, but enjoys it support from Washington, including defense assistance and supplies of patrol vessels and anti-tank weapons.
Arleigh Burke’s mission follows a similar visit to the Black Sea earlier this month USS Mount Whitney command ship, which was also closely followed by the Russian navy.
