Russia signals readiness to work with Türkiye on Black Sea security

Russia said it is ready to work with Türkiye to stabilise the situation in the Black Sea, citing growing security concerns linked to the conflict in Ukraine.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova made the remarks in response to a media question about reported attacks by Ukrainian forces in the Black Sea, according to Kommersant newspaper.

Zakharova said Moscow was concerned about what she described as an “escalation of activity” by Ukraine in the maritime area, which she said was worsening conditions and increasing risks for civilian navigation.

She added that ensuring security in the Black Sea was a key component of what she called a “comprehensive settlement of the crisis around Ukraine.”

“The Armed Forces of Ukraine carry out bandit raids on vessels — using naval drones or UAVs — and shift all the blame onto Russia... We confirm our readiness for close cooperation with Ankara in the interests of finding optimal ways to stabilise the Black Sea area and exert effective influence on Kyiv,” Zakharova said.

By Tamilla Hasanova