Ukraine’s opposition ‘Brotherhood’ party has prevented foreign warships from leaving the Black Sea port of Odessa and participating in a NATO naval exercise.
Ten boats blocked the exit from the port where the warships are being deployed. Three vessels have been boarded by NATO security but the others are continuing the blockade. Ukraine, the U.S. and 15 other countries are participating in the military exercise ‘Sea Breeze 2008’ which will be held until July 26. A similar alliance exercise in 2006 was also disrupted by protests.