U.S. considering sending warships to Black Sea to deter Russia - CNN

“The U.S. Navy routinely operates in the Black Sea, but a deployment of warships now would send a specific message to Moscow that the US is closely watching,” the official said.

Under the Montreux Convention, the U.S. is required to give Turkey 14 days notice of its intention to enter the Black Sea. However, it is unclear if an official notice has yet been sent.

The defense official also said the Navy is continuing to fly reconnaissance aircraft in international airspace over the Black Sea to monitor Russian naval activity and any troops’ movements in Crimea.

At the same time, it is noted that Washington does not consider the concentration of Russian forces on Ukraine's eastern border as posturing for an offensive action, but the official added that "if something changes we will be ready to respond."

As Ukrinform reported, the United States and NATO countries have repeatedly made clear statements in support of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity amid the escalation in eastern Ukraine, as well as increased Russian military presence in Eastern Europe.

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