Ukraine Considers Ships Heading to Russia as "Military Transports"

The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry condemned Russia's warning today, Thursday, that it would "consider ships sailing to Ukrainian ports through the Black Sea as potential transports for military cargo." The ministry stated: "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine strongly condemns any threat to use force against civilian ships, regardless of the flag they fly." It added: "The intention to consider foreign ships as military targets violates Russia's obligations under international law, not only towards Ukraine but also towards all countries that engage their vessels in peaceful maritime activities in the Black Sea." The ministry pointed out that "Russia's statement has no legitimate military objective but aims to threaten Ukraine and neutral countries."