Ukraine promises more sanctions against Russia because of 'aggression in the Kerch Strait'
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Pavlo Klimkin stated that a new set of severe sanctions would be imposed against Russia for aggressive actions in the Kerch Strait, Interfax Ukraine reports.
“Several sets of sanctions are being prepared, severe sanctions. I cannot talk about all the details, but in fact, what already exists, works against Russia,” said the Foreign Minister.
Klimkin also said that the US President Donald Trump canceling his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, was a “slap in the face,” for the Russian leader.
On November 29th, US President Donald Trump canceled the meeting with the president of Russia Vladimir Putin after Russia seized three Ukrainian ships and detained their crew member in the Kerch Strait.
On the morning of November 25, Ukraine informed the Russian port of its intention to transfer three ships through the Kerch Strait, as required by the Agreement on the joint use of the Azov Sea and Kerch Strait. However, at around 8:00 a.m., Russian ships carried out acts of provocation against the Ukrainian vessels, even ramming into the Yany Kapu tugboat.
Russia later accused the Ukrainian ships of illegally entering its territorial waters, claiming that they were “maneuvering dangerously” and “not complying with the legitimate demands of the Russian authorities”. Russia also physically blocked the Kerch Strait with a transport ship. The Ukrainian ships decided to return to Odessa, but they were chased and subsequently attacked by the Russian military. The Berdiansk and Nikopol boats were hit, and two crew members were wounded. All three of the ships were seized by Russia.
The crew members if the Ukrainian ships were detained and are facing trial in Russia.