Russia has increased its military presence in the Black Sea and sent two warships to the area and 15 smaller ships amid tensions with Ukraine.
The military maneuvers, reported by Reuters, come as Russia has built up its military presence along its border with Ukraine and increased fighting in eastern Ukraine with pro-Russian separatists.
The deployments are the latest sign of escalation with the US over Ukraine.
The United States this week imposed a series of sanctions on Russia for its malicious behavior, including interference in elections and actions in Ukraine. The US government also suspended ten Russian diplomats.
Moscow responded in kind and kicked ten Americans out of Russia.
‘There are elements of this new EO [executive order] a senior U.S. official said Thursday and warned of the extra steps the White House could take.
‘We prefer not to deploy these authorities, but the extent and potential for significant impact should send a clear signal that continued harmful activities, including further electoral interference, further malicious cyber-activities are unacceptable, and we are prepared to continue. will incur significant and lasting costs if this behavior continues, ”the official added.
In addition to pressure from the US, the United Kingdom has also summoned the Russian ambassador, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will meet with the leaders of France and Germany to discuss the latest Russian military movements.