Russian Foreign Ministry explains military presence in the Sea of Azov
Russia is not increasing its military presence in the Sea of Azov, the forces present there are protecting the Crimean bridge, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said.
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| Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova. Photo: TASS |
Maria Zakharova recalled that from the very beginning, when the plans for the bridge were announced, Russia heard direct calls from Ukrainian officials, including politicians and security officials from Kiev, to destroy the bridge.
Therefore, existing forces are used to protect the Crimean bridge, however Russia does not have a naval base on the Sea of Azov.
"The above-mentioned forces are also used to ensure the safety of ship traffic," Ms. Zakharova said at a press conference on December 19.