Russia’s Defense Ministry has issued a warning to the United States regarding its reconnaissance drone flights over the Black Sea. The ministry ordered officials to prepare a “response” to these flights, signalling that Moscow may take forceful action to deter American reconnaissance aircraft.

The recent surge in U.S. drone activity over the Black Sea has raised concerns. According to the Russian Defense Ministry, these drones are conducting intelligence and targeting for precision weapons supplied to the Ukrainian military by Western countries. These weapons are intended for strikes on Russian facilities.

The situation reflects an increased involvement of the U.S. and other NATO countries in the conflict in Ukraine, supporting the Kyiv regime. The ministry emphasized that such flights significantly raise the risk of incidents involving Russian military aircraft, potentially leading to direct confrontation between NATO and Russia. It also warned that NATO members would bear responsibility for any escalation.

This isn’t the first time U.S. drones have caused tensions in the region. In a 2023 incident, a Russian fighter jet damaged an American drone over the Black Sea, resulting in a crash. A repeat of such a confrontation could further escalate the conflict.

The backdrop to this warning is the recent Ukrainian attack on Sevastopol, where U.S.-made ATACMS missiles killed four people and injured about 150. Russia alleges that the U.S. provided data for these missiles, targeting Crimea—an area annexed by Russia in 2014. As tensions rise, residents in Sevastopol have been advised to carry tourniquets in case of further attacks.

Additionally, a Ukrainian drone recently struck a petrol depot in central Russia, escalating the situation further. The conflict remains volatile, with both sides closely monitoring each other’s actions.

More from: Ukraine - Russia War