Ukraine starts missile tests over Black Sea despite Russia's concerns

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said Thursday his country has launched the planned missile tests over the Black Sea despite safety concerns voiced by Russia.

"Just now the first reports came on the successful launch conducted this morning. The exercises involve combat and transport aviation, anti-aircraft and radio divisions," Poroshenko said during his meeting with the National Guard's servicemen.

The main goal of the exercises, which run from Dec. 1 to 2 in Ukraine's southern Kherson region, is an enhancement of the country's defensive capabilities, Poroshenko said, emphasizing that the drills were planned beforehand.

Commenting on Moscow's warnings that the missile tests could affect Russia's airspace, the Ukrainian president said the maneuvers are being carried out in the airspace of Ukraine, over the high seas and in full accordance with international law.

"The air shootings are being held regardless of the statements made by Moscow," Poroshenko said.

Last week, the Command of Ukraine's Air Forces said it had issued a notice to the air carriers from Ukraine and abroad over the danger of using the airspace in certain areas of the Black Sea around southern Ukraine due to the planned tests.

In response, Russia's Federal Air Transport Agency has protested against Ukraine's plans to hold the missile test, saying it violates international aviation agreements and endangers the safety of international air navigation. Endi