A Russian fighter jet collided with a US drone over the Black Sea

In a press release, U.S. Forces Europe and Africa Command said that two Russian SU-27 aircraft intercepted an MQ-9 unmanned U.S. Air Force Intelligence Agency drone flying in international airspace over the Black Sea.

"Our MQ-9 drone was conducting routine operations in international airspace when it was hit by a Russian aircraft, resulting in a crash and the complete loss of the MQ-9. In fact, this dangerous and unprofessional act by the Russians almost caused the crash of both aircraft," said US Air Force General James B. Hecker.

At around 08:03 am Kyiv time, a Russian SU-27 aircraft hit the MQ-9's propeller, which is why US forces had to shoot down the MQ-9 in international waters.

They also added that several times before the collision, the SU-27 dumped fuel and performed unprofessional manoeuvres in front of the MQ-9.

"This incident demonstrates a lack of competence in addition to being dangerous and unprofessional," the statement said.