The Pentagon is immediately suspending military relations with Russia as the latest of a quickening series of American moves to isolate Moscow over its military intervention in Ukraine. Defense Department officials said Monday the decision would bring a halt to planning for a joint Naval exercise planned for May, along with port visits, bilateral meetings and planning conferences. "We call on Russia to deescalate the crisis in Ukraine and for Russian forces in Crimea to return to their bases, as required under the agreements governing the Russia Black Sea Fleet," said Rear Adm. John Kirby, the Pentagon spokesman. Adm. Kirby said the U.S. Navy hasn't taken any special steps in the region to boost its presence in response to Russia's increasing military hold on Crimea.
