The UK has warned Russia against using its growing military presence in the Sea of Azov to “destabilize” regional economy, amid allegations that Ukrainian ships are being denied access to the waters.
In a statement published Monday, the UK Foreign Office accused Russia of delaying or preventing Ukrainian ships’ access to the sea while blocking other ships from entering Ukraine’s ports.
“Russia and its security forces continue to disrupt Ukrainian and international shipping calling at Ukrainian ports in the Sea of Azov,” the statement read, claiming that Moscow had “unlawfully” built bridges that connected the Crimean Peninsula to its mainland.
After constructing the bridges, Russia has stopped and searched vessels sailing in the region, causing delays and other problems for more than 200 vessels, the statement continued.
“Restrictions on freedom of passage have been accompanied by an increase in Russia’s military presence…