The Ukrainian Navy and the US Navy destroyer ‘James Williams’ have conducted joint exercises of the PASSEX-type in the Black Sea, according to the Ukrainian military. Two Ukrainian Ka-27 helicopters took part in the drills on December 2, according to the statement. The stated purpose of the event was for Ukraine to enhance cooperation with the ships in accordance with NATO standards. The Defense Committee of Russia’s Federation Council, the upper house, described the maneuvers as a provocative and unfriendly gesture by the US.