MOSCOW, Nov 26, 2018 (BSS/AFP) – Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on
Monday accused Kiev of “dangerous” moves in the Kerch Strait after a
confrontation between Russian and Ukrainian navy ships.
Lavrov said Ukraine had violated international norms with “dangerous
methods that created threats and risks for the normal movement of ships in
the area”.
On Sunday, Russia boarded and seized three Ukrainian ships in the strait
off Moscow-annexed Crimea, accusing them of illegally entering Russian waters
in the Sea of Azov.
Ukraine has demanded the release of its sailors and more sanctions against
Moscow.
Lavrov called the incident a “clear provocation” by Kiev and accused the
European Union of “blind support” for Ukraine.
“We call on Kiev’s Western sponsors to calm those who are trying to earn
political points on military hysteria,” he said, implying the incident was
planned ahead of Ukraine’s presidential election next year.
The confrontation at sea has raised fears of a wider military escalation
and the UN Security Council was to hold an emergency session later Monday to
consider a response.