Russian live-fire naval exercises in the Black Sea by a fleet of six Russian amphibious warships, and a Kilo-class submarine, are raising fears that they could be used to create a de facto blockade of Ukraine's southern coast, which could be part of Russian preparations for an invasion.
Russia has sent its six older amphibious warships – previously reported by ADN to have deployed to the Eastern Mediterranean – to the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov to conduct live-fire naval exercises. According to The Drive, Russia issued notices warning mariners and aviators to avoid significant portions of these areas from February 13 through February 19.
The Interfax news agency has reported that Russia claims these are simply a pre-planned movement of military resources.
The six Russian warships include the Korolev, the Minsk, the Kaliningrad, the Pyotr Morgunov, the Georgy Pobedonosets and the Olenegorsky Gornyak. According to Naval News, these amphibious landing ships can carry and land up to 63 main battle tanks and 2,000 troops.
Instead of being used for a ‘blockade,' some analysts believe these ships can also add to offensive Russian capabilities off the coast of Ukraine. However, others – as noted previously by ADN – argue this could simply be a feint, or diversion to keep NATO ships distracted.
Or, it could be all of the above. It appears we will all soon find out.
The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the positions of American Liberty News.
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A ‘Blockade’ is an act of war. I am sure they will say it is a ‘Quarantine.’