Russia has increased its military presence in the Black Sea, sending two warships to the area and 15 smaller ships amid tensions with Ukraine.
Military maneuvers, reported by Reuters, come as Russia has strengthened its military presence along the border with Ukraine and intensified fighting in eastern Ukraine with pro-Russian separatists.
Implementations are the latest sign of escalation with the United States over Ukraine.
The United States has overturned a series of sanctions against Russia over its misbehavior this week, including the electoral mix and actions in Ukraine. The US government also expelled 10 Russian diplomats.
Moscow responded in kind, expelling 10 Americans from Russia.
“There are elements of this new EO [executive order] which gives us additional authority that we do not exercise today, “a senior US official said on Thursday, warning of additional measures the White House could take.
“We would prefer not to deploy these authorities, but the purpose and potential to make a significant impact should send a clear signal that ongoing harmful activities, including additional electoral interference, other malicious cyber activities are unacceptable and we are prepared to moving forward imposes substantial and sustainable costs if this behavior continues, “the official added.
In addition to pressure from the United States, Britain has also summoned the Russian ambassador, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is to meet with the leaders of France and Germany to discuss the latest Russian military movements.