Russia demands surrender of Ukraine's Crimea forces.

[steve2470]

108. "put on hold all military-to-military engagements between the United States and Russia"

Pentagon Press Secretary Rear Admiral John Kirby just released this Department of Defense statement on the situation in Ukraine:

Although the Department of Defense finds value in the military-to-military relationship with the Russian Federation we have developed over the past few years to increase transparency, build understanding, and reduce the risk of military miscalculation we have, in light of recent events in Ukraine, put on hold all military-to-military engagements between the United States and Russia. This includes exercises, bilateral meetings, port visits and planning conferences.


The Defense Department is closely monitoring the situation and remains in close contact with the State Department and interagency, along with our Allies, Partners and NATO. We call on Russia to deescalate the crisis in Ukraine and for Russian forces in Crimea to return to their bases, as required under the agreements governing the Russia Black Sea Fleet.


Some media outlets are speculating on possible ship movements in the region. There has been no change to our military posture in Europe or the Mediterranean; our Navy units continue to conduct routine, previously planned operations and exercises with allies and partners in the region.

http://america.aljazeera.com/articles/2014/3/2/live-blog-crisisinukraine.html