NATO ships in Black Sea signify stability of Odesa region

As the press service of the Administration reports, Svitlana Shatalova made a corresponding statement at a meeting with the commanders of the Royal Canadian Navy frigate HMCS Toronto and the Spanish Navy frigate Santa Maria, the ambassadors of the two countries, and the head of the NATO Representation to Ukraine.

“For Ukraine, a strategic partnership with NATO is an integral part of the integration. The very presence of ships in the Black Sea and conduct of joint exercises signify stability and security in Odesa region” she stressed during the meeting.

The Deputy Chairperson of the Odesa Regional State Administration noted that "NATO SNMG2 frigates will take part in the PASSEX type mini-exercises together with the ships of the naval forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, which is an important component of cooperation with the North Atlantic Alliance.

“Joint exercises bring us closer to the high standards of NATO,” Shatalova said.

She also stressed that the return of Ukrainian prisoners of war to their homeland is of fundamental importance.

In turn, Head of the NATO Representation to Ukraine Alexander Vinnikov confirmed that the Alliance would continue to put pressure on Russia demanding the immediate release of the captured sailors.

“The presence of these ships is a powerful signal of our solidarity with Ukraine. NATO, as is known, strengthens its presence in the Black Sea in response to Russia's aggressive actions within the framework of the overall strengthening of deterrent and defence forces. This can be seen on the sea, over the sea, and on land. In the end, the practical assistance of NATO to Ukraine is very diverse, and a part of it is provided in Odesa region,” Vinnikov said.

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