MOSCOW: The Russian Black Sea fleet based in Crimea denied Monday there were plans to storm Ukrainian military positions on the peninsula, calling reports of an ultimatum “nonsense,” Interfax said.
“That is complete nonsense,” a representative of the fleet was quoted as saying after Ukraine’s regional military said it had received an ultimatum to surrender early Tuesday or face attack.
“We are used to daily accusations about using force against our Ukrainian colleagues,” he said. “Efforts to make us clash won’t work.”
The Russian foreign ministry earlier said that the Black Sea fleet divisions in Crimea “are not intervening in Ukraine’s internal politics” and any movements by the troops were made necessary out of self-protection.
“Movements by divisions are generated by the goal of ensuring security of the fleet’s sites and preventing any possible attacks by extremists and radicals on our compatriots,” the ministry said in an official statement.
Dear TNT Reader,
At The News Tribe, our mission is to bring you free, independent, and unbiased news and content that keeps you informed and empowered. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of journalism, as we understand that we are a platform for truth.
Apart from independent global news coverage, we also commit our unique focus on the Muslim world. In an age marked by the troubling rise of Islamophobia and widespread misrepresentation of Muslims in Western media, we strive to provide accurate and fair coverage.
But to continue doing so, we need your support. Even a small donation of 1$ can make a big difference. Your contribution will help us maintain the quality of our news and counteract the negative narratives that are so prevalent.
Please consider donating today to ensure we can keep delivering the news that matters. Together, we can make a positive impact on the world, and work towards a more inclusive, informed global society.
Donate Monthly Subscription Annual Subscription