"On 17 June 2020, the USS Porter destroyer (of the Arleigh Burke class) of the US Navy entered the Black Sea", Russia's National Defence Control Centre said in a statement.

The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Porter started its transit en route to the Black Sea on June 17 to conduct maritime security operations and enhance regional maritime stability, combined preparedness and naval capability with U.S. NATO allies and partner nations, the U.S. Navy said.

To respond promptly to potential emergencies in the Black Sea, a series of steps are being taken by the Russian Southern Military District forces and means to track the ship's actions, it added.

“Porter’s presence in the Black Sea is crucial to building a secure maritime environment and ensuring freedom of navigation,” USS Porter’s commander officer Commander Craig Trent stated.

The Black Sea operations of the ship will enhance interoperability with NATO allies and partners and demonstrate collective resolve to the security of the Black Sea, the statement said.

Forward-deployed to Naval Station Rota, Spain, USS Porter conducts naval operations in the US. Sixth Fleet area of operations in Europe to support US national security interests.

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