Moscow has formally expressed its concerns to Ankara regarding what it describes as Kyiv’s recent maneuvers in the Black Sea, asserting that these actions pose a significant threat to regional maritime safety. Russian officials claim that Ukraine’s increased military presence and deployment of naval assets near key shipping lanes have escalated tensions and increased the risk of accidents involving commercial vessels navigating these crucial waters. The Russian Ministry of Defense emphasized that such activities might disrupt the free flow of maritime trade and compromise the security of international shipping routes connecting Europe and Asia.

In a detailed brief sent to Turkish authorities, Russia outlined several specific concerns:

  • Uncoordinated naval exercises: Movements close…