According to a statement from US Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa Public Affairs, two Russian aircraft made an "unsafe, unprofessional" intercept of a US Air Force B-52 bomber on Friday over the Black Sea and in international waters. The Russia B-27 crossed within 100 feet of the nose of the B-52 multiple times and also caused turbulence to the B-52 restricting its ability to maneuver, CNN writes.
"Actions like these increase the potential for midair collisions, are unnecessary, and inconsistent with good airmanship and international flight rules," - said Gen. Jeff Harrigian, US Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa commander.
"While the Russian aircraft were operating in international airspace, they jeopardized the safety of flight of the aircraft involved. We expect them to operate within international standards set to ensure safety and prevent accidents," - he said.
CNN informs that US B-52 flew over 30 NATO countries on Friday to demonstrate NATO solidarity.
