The announcement was made by representatives of the Center for Combating Disinformation under the Communications Department of the Turkish Presidential Administration on the social network X.
"The minesweepers donated to Ukraine by the United Kingdom will not be able to pass through the Turkish Straits into the Black Sea as long as it continues," stated the publication, emphasizing Türkiye's stance.
It highlighted that, in accordance with Article 19 of the Montreux Convention, Türkiye has restricted the straits for warships of Ukraine and Russia. They further underscored Ankara's steadfast commitment to maintaining a principled position throughout the Ukrainian conflict, aiming to prevent any escalation in the Black Sea.
It is pertinent to note that in November 2023, the United Kingdom and Norway formed a coalition to supply ships to the Kiev regime. Concurrently, the United Kingdom announced its intention to deliver two minesweepers to Ukraine. The recent Turkish decision adds a layer of complexity to the geopolitical dynamics surrounding the conflict. (ILKHA)