Turkey pointed out to Russia the risk of increased tension due to the inspection of ships in the Black Sea

Turkey pointed out to Russia the need to avoid actions that could increase tension in the Black Sea. This is stated in the message of the Center for Combating Disinformation under the Turkish Presidential Administration.

“After the actions taken against the ship, the Russian side was duly advised to avoid such initiatives that could increase tension in the Black Sea,” said in the message (quoted by TASS).

The statement was made in connection with the inspection by the Russian military of the dry cargo ship Sukra Okan under the flag of Palau, which was heading to the Ukrainian port of Izmail. August 13, the press service of the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reportedthat the patrol ship of the Black Sea Fleet “Vasily Bykov” had to open warning fire to stop the ship.

The cargo ship was discovered in the southwestern part of the Black Sea. According to the ministry, the captain of the ship did not respond to the request to stop for inspection for the transport of prohibited goods. As a result, the ship stalled, and the Russian inspection team examined the cargo ship, after which it continued to move.

On July 19, the Ministry of Defense declared all ships going to Ukrainian ports as potential military targets. The decision was justified by the termination of the “Black Sea Initiative” and the curtailment of the maritime humanitarian corridor. The agency stated that all ships sailing in the Black Sea to Ukrainian ports will be considered as potential carriers of military cargo. The Ministry of Defense also noted that the state under the flag of which the ship is heading to the Ukrainian port will be considered involved in the conflict and supporting Ukraine.