Ukraine and NATO should “breathe evenly” and not be nervous about the closure of a part of the Black Sea by Russia, said Mikhail Sheremet, a State Duma deputy from the Crimean region.
According to the deputy, in connection with the unfolding events at the Russian borders, the country is “forced” to strengthen and protect its border territories. This is necessary in order to ensure safe navigation in territorial waters and prevent provocations.
“We need to calm down, breathe evenly, not be nervous. Russia acts exclusively within the framework of national and international law, including maritime law, “RIA Novosti quoted him as saying on Friday, April 16.
Sheremet stressed that as soon as a stable and predictable situation is established in the region, the restrictions will be lifted.
Earlier, on April 15, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine expressed a protest in connection with the intention of the Russian Federation to temporarily close part of the water area. Kiev considered this a violation of international law.
The Ministry of Defense explained that the planned closure of some areas of the Black Sea by October 31 will not interfere with navigation through the Kerch Strait, all zones are within the territorial waters of Russia.
On April 14, it was reported that a detachment of ships of the Black Sea Fleet of the Russian Federation went to sea for exercises. The training activities will also involve helicopters and aircraft of naval aviation and air defense of the Black Sea Fleet. The maneuvers are carried out as part of a control check during the winter training period.