“BUZZING” OF SHIPS

Press, Volume XCIX, Issue 29264, 23 July 1960, Page 13

“BUZZING” OF SHIPS

Soviet Protest Rejected

WASHINGTON, July 21. The United States today rejected what it called “a reckless threat of aggressive action" over alleged United States “buzzing" of Soviet vessels on the high seas. In a Note delivered in Moscow today, the United States said the Soviet protest about the alleged "buzzing" contained “a reckless threat of aggressive action against United States aircraft proceeding on legitimate flights over international waters."

The Note said: “This threat resembles other recent Soviet statements and actions. The United States Government cannot accept this threat It will continue to exercise all the rights over international waters to which it is entitled under international law and practice.” The Note was referring to a Soviet statement that it would be obliged “to take other measures which will be necessary to ensure the safety of navigation of Soviet vessels in open seas.” Referring to Soviet allegations, the Note said the United States “rejects these Soviet allegations as without foundation. At no time has a United States plane flown over Soviet vessels in any way which would constitute a hazard to the vessel or endanger the safety of its crew.” the Note said.