A Russian lawmaker has issued a stark warning about the potential consequences if NATO increases its presence in the Black Sea.
Breaking Agreements and Ignoring Promises
Dmitry Belik, a member of the State Duma representing Sevastopol and a member of the international affairs committee, spoke to Russian news agency RIA Novosti, underscoring his concerns, according to Lenta.
Belik emphasized that any attempt by NATO to bolster its presence in the Black Sea would have severe and irreversible repercussions.
He criticized NATO countries for breaking agreements and ignoring their promises, suggesting that such moves are intended to act as a provocative and intimidating factor against Russia.
This sentiment reflects ongoing tensions that have escalated since 2014, a period marked by significant geopolitical shifts.
Powerful Means to Counteract Threats
The lawmaker assured that while Russia possesses powerful means to counteract potential threats, a direct military confrontation with NATO in the Black Sea is not anticipated. However, he did not rule out the possibility of provocations from Western nations, which could further strain relations.
Earlier, Russian Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev had also raised concerns about NATO’s intentions in the Black Sea.
Patrushev indicated that NATO's actions could be in violation of the Montreux Convention, an international agreement established in 1936.
The Montreux Convention regulates naval traffic through the Bosporus and Dardanelles straits, allowing free passage for commercial vessels while imposing certain restrictions on military ships.
