Russian Pacific Fleet’s warships had been waiting for Türkiye’s permission to cross the Bosphorus into the Black Sea since early February, but Ankara never allowed them to enter.
Seventeen Russian warships and boats, including Kalibr-type cruise missile carriers, are remaining combat ready in the Black Sea, the Sea of Azov and the Mediterranean Sea.
The Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine's parliament, has adopted a statement asking the international community to condemn Russia's aggression in parts of the Black and Azov Seas and the Kerch Strait.
The Russian Navy keeps three carriers of Kalibr operational-tactical cruise missiles in the Black Sea, while another six enemy warships and cutters are deployed in the waters of the Sea of Azov.