“Retaliatory measures are possible, but they will be used, in my deep conviction, only if the United States start crossing the red lines,” the Russian senator told Russia-24 television channel.

Kosachev noted that the joint operation involving the US Navy destroyer USS Porter with the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) forces in the Black Sea is a provocation that should be seen in the context of what is happening in southeastern Ukraine.

According to lawmaker Kosachev, Washington is interested in Russia’s response actions, as they will help the United States justify its military support to Ukraine and the increased military presence in the region.

On Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the country’s authorities are clear that there are certain threats to the nation’s security and they are prepared to respond appropriately.

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