MOSCOW: The Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) reported on Thursday that it successfully thwarted an attack on a ship in the Black Sea, amid escalating tensions in the region following the expiration of a deal safeguarding grain exports. The FSB revealed that it foiled an attempt by Ukraine’s special service to carry out a terror attack on one of the Black Sea Fleet ships, which was transporting high-precision missile weapons.
The security agency detained a Russian navy serviceman who had allegedly been recruited by the Ukrainian special service and was found carrying two improvised explosive devices. The individual is suspected of planning a “terrorist attack,” trafficking explosives, committing treason, and disclosing state secrets, according to the FSB’s statement.
Attacks on Black Sea Fleet
The Black Sea Fleet, under Russian control, has been a target of attacks since Moscow’s military intervention in Ukraine over a year ago. However, the frequency of these attacks has increased in recent weeks, adding to the escalating tensions in the region.
Just two days before, Russia reported repelling a drone attack on a military patrol boat deployed southwest of Sevastopol, located on the annexed Crimea peninsula. Furthermore, last week, drones damaged Russia’s crucial Crimea bridge, a vital military supply route connecting mainland Russia to the annexed peninsula. Ukraine claimed responsibility for the attack.
The situation in the Black Sea region remains highly volatile, with both Russia and Ukraine accusing each other of aggression and terrorism-related activities.
