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Two U.S. Navy vessels, the Blue Ridge-class command and control ship USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20) and Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78) entered the Batumi port on November 8, Civil.ge reported. 

The two vessels are ships of the U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa 6th Fleet, which stated the visit highlights “an important relationship between NATO allies and vital Black Sea partner Georgia.”

According to the statement, an integrated team of the U.S. Sixth Fleet and Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO are operating onboard the USS Mount Whitney.

“The interoperability between the commands, and their presence in the region, demonstrates the U.S. and NATO’s commitment to the Black Sea and to working with allies and partners to advance peace and prosperity in the region,” the 6th Fleet stressed.

It is noted that the two vessels entered the Black Sea on November 4 to conduct maritime operations with NATO Allies and regional partners. 

Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoygu said on November 7 Moscow was keeping a close eye and tracking the two U.S. warships in the Black Sea, claiming any provocations were possible.