U.S. says Russia harassing ships

Hundreds of commercial vessels have been delayed en route to Ukrainian ports.    The State Department on Thursday called on Russia to stop “harassment” of international shipping in the Sea of Azov and the Kerch Strait, stating the country has delayed hundreds of commercial vessels since April and in recent weeks has stopped at least 16 commercial ships attempting to reach Ukrainian ports.
   “Russia’s actions to impede maritime transit are further examples of its ongoing campaign to undermine and destabilize Ukraine, as well as its disregard for international norms,” State said in a press release. “The United States supports Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders, extending to its territorial waters.”