Russia Holds Drills in Black Sea amid Tensions

Local Editor

Russian naval forces announced three-day military maneuvers in the Black Sea amid growing tensions between Moscow and Kiev over the Crimean Peninsula.

The Russian Defense Ministry said on Friday that its navy would start to hold exercises in the area to practice repelling underwater attacks by saboteurs.

Russia Black Sea Fleet based in Crimea is taking part in the military exercises. More than 10 warships, MI-8 and Ka-27PS helicopters are participating in the training.

"During the drill we are going to practice the issues of both operational and technical support. These include operations to counter underwater sabotage, navigational and hydrographic exercise, search and rescue missions," said Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Navy Admiral Viktor Chirkov.

The Russian Federal Security Service said on Wednesday that it had thwarted an incursion by the Ukrainian military into Crimea over the weekend, saying two Russians were killed in the incident.

For its part, Ukraine's defense intelligence rejected Russia's claim over the incursion, saying it was based on "fake information."

Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered measures to ramp up security in Crimea.

The Kremlin said in a statement on Thursday that President Vladimir Putin held a meeting with his security chiefs to review "additional measures for ensuring security for citizens and essential infrastructure in Crimea."

Source: News Agencies, Edited by website team