In a written statement made by the British Foreign Office yesterday, it was stated that Russia could target civilian cargo ships in the Black Sea within the scope of the intelligence obtained. "Information declassified today suggests that Russia may continue to target civilian shipping in the Black Sea, including by laying sea mines near Ukrainian ports. This would continue Russia's attempts to put pressure on the Ukrainian economy. It is almost certain that Russia wants to avoid openly sinking civilian ships, instead blaming Ukraine for any attacks on civilian shipping in the Black Sea."

THE BLACK SEA WILL BE CLOSELY MONITORED

The ministry announced that intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities have been activated to closely monitor Russia's activities in the Black Sea. "The UK has deployed intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities to monitor Russia's activities in the Black Sea. These capabilities will help us detect and publicise any new Russian attacks on civilian shipping or infrastructure."

CLEVERLY WE SEE RUSSIAN INITIATIVES

British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly stated that the whole world is following the developments and Russia's attempts are seen, "Russia's targeting of civilian ships in the Black Sea shows Putin's disregard for the lives of civilians and the needs of defenceless people. The world is watching and we see Russia's cynical attempts to blame Ukraine for its attacks. We and our allies stand united against Putin and his attempts to harm Ukraine and thus the rest of the world."