Ukraine has accused Russia of imposing a sea blockade and cutting off sea-based access to the country, adding to already rising tensions.

Ukraine’s foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba condemned Moscow’s actions, and the the Ukrainian foreign ministry also put out an official statement in protest against the blockade.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine strongly protests against the decision of the Russian Federation to block parts of the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov and the Kerch Strait under the pretext of holding regular naval exercises,” said the foreign ministry statement.

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“Unprecedented coverage of maneuvers makes navigation in both seas virtually impossible. In essence, this is a significant and unjustified complication of international shipping, especially trade, which can cause complex economic and social consequences, especially for the ports of Ukraine,” the statement added.

Kiev also accused Moscow of engaging in “hybrid” warfare through such manoeuvres, saying, “Such aggressive actions of the Russian Federation, which fit into the concept of its hybrid war against Ukraine, are unacceptable.”

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“This is a manifestation of open disregard for the norms and principles of international law, including the UN Charter, UN General Assembly resolutions and the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea,” the statement continued, reminding Russia that it was in violation of international law.

Kiev went on to say that it would work with its partners to ensure that Russia’s actions receive a “proper” response: “Ukraine is closely working with the partners, primarily those of the Black Sea region, to ensure that such actions of the Russian side receive a proper assessment and response.”

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The alleged blockade comes amid escalating tensions between US and NATO-backed Ukraine and Russia. Moscow has reportedly deployed 100,000 troops along the borders of Ukraine and has repeatedly been accused by the West of hatching plans to invade Ukraine.

Moscow, however, maintains that it has no such intention, and says it is merely looking for security guarantees from the US and NATO. However, despite its claims, Russia has begun military exercises with Belarus over the past few days, drills that have been described as a “violent gesture” by France.