Russia's intention to block the Black Sea is a violation of the UN Convention - Josep Borrell

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Joseph Borrell responds to the Russian Federation's intention to block certain areas of the Black Sea for maritime navigation.

In his statement, Borrell writes that the closure of certain areas of the Black Sea for naval shipping till October 2021 for military maneuvers is of "serious concern," especially given the situation on the Ukrainian-Russian border and in the illegally annexed Crimea.

According to Borrell, this "violates the freedom of navigation under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea." The EU expects Russia to ensure unhindered movement in and out of the Sea of Azov in accordance with international law," Borrell wrote.