US Missile Destroyer USS Cole Heading to Black Sea

Moscow (PNA/Sputnik) — The US is sending its guided missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG-67) into the Black Sea “to promote peace and stability in the region,” according to the statement from US 6th Fleet.

The vessel is set to enter the Black Sea on Sunday.

US military forces listen to U.S. Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel speaking at Tactical Base Gamberi in eastern Afghanistan, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2014. Hagel was winding up a two day visit, his last to Afghanistan as secretary of defense.

“Cole’s presence in the Black Sea will serve to reaffirm the US dedication to commitment towards strengthening the partnerships and joint operational capabilities amongst US, NATO and regional Black Sea partners,” says the statement posted on the official website of the US Naval Forces Europe.

USS Cole (DDG-67) vessel is a US Arleigh Burke-class guided multi-role destroyer, capable of destroying missiles, aircrafts, submarines and ships.

The vessel was previously patrolling in the Black Sea in October.

All warships from countries without a coast on the Black Sea operate under the 1936 Montreux Convention Regarding the Regime of the Straits.

Montreux rules call for foreign warships to depart the Black Sea after 21 days. (PNA/Sputnik) CTB/SSC