Russia accuses NATO of militarizing the Black Sea region.

Russia criticized the EU and NATO's display of solidarity with Ukraine over the Kerch Strait clashes. Photo: Getty

In a statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry emphasized: "It is NATO that is actively militarizing the Black Sea region, increasing its military presence in Eastern Europe, and modernizing military and civilian infrastructure."

In Romania, US National Missile Defense (NMD) systems have been deployed. The military alliance has also stepped up maritime and air patrols, actively conducting reconnaissance in the region, particularly along the Russian border.

"The total time that warships of NATO naval groups have been present in the Black Sea region has increased from 80 days to 120 days. NATO makes no secret of its plans to further strengthen its military presence in this region," the Russian Foreign Ministry said.

The Russian Foreign Ministry also stressed that the European Union's (EU) and NATO's display of solidarity with Ukraine in the Kerch Strait clash only "heats up militaristic sentiment in Kyiv and supports those who wish to continue the confrontation."