BRUSSELS, June 16 /TASS/. Russia will closely watch the US and NATO military activities in the Black Sea which may also involve Ukraine and other countries, Russia’s Permanent Representative to NATO Alexander Grushko said on Thursday.

"It is clear that we are going to react to such things with an aim to ensure reliable security on Russia’s southern borders," he added.

"We have not seen any concrete implementation of NATO decisions to build up its military presence in the Black Sea so far but the alliance is discussing this idea. For example, proposals have been made to create a permanent naval group, which will involve NATO countries that are not directly located in the Black Sea region, as well as partner countries," the Russian diplomat said.

"From our point of view, this idea will negatively affect the already complicated situation in the Black Sea caused by NATO’s increased military activity. It may further undermine the existing cooperation formats in the Black Sea region. US attempts to conquer this water area with the help of ships, which are equipped with the Aegis Combat System and have a serious anti-missile and strike potential, are carrying additional destabilization risks," Grushko concluded.