Russia, Ukraine tensions rise
By Russia correspondent Scott Bevan
August 14, 2008 - 8:42AM
Source: ABC
Tension between Russia and Ukraine is escalating, with Ukraine demanding to be informed of the movements of Russian warships based in its waters.
Ukrainian President Viktor Yuschenko has signed a decree which requires the command of Russia's Black Sea fleet to seek permission to move ships outside its Ukraine base.
Under the rules, the Russians are expected to submit an application for approval 10 working days before any ship movement.
Moscow has dismissed the decree as not serious and against the spirit of a Friendship and Co-operation Treaty the two countries have.
Ships from Russia's Black Sea fleet have been sitting off Georgia in response to the South Ossetian conflict, and have reported sinking at least one Georgian naval vessel.
http://www.bigpond.com/news/world/content/20080814/2334852.asp