KIEV, Jan. 31 –The Ukrainian navy has said the unofficial visit of the U.S.S. Vella Gulf guided-missile cruiser to Ukraine will be important for cooperation in anti-terrorist operations and in fighting sea piracy.

"The planned events will favor the further preparation of military servicemen for participation in anti-terrorist operations and operations to fight sea piracy. Sea tactical exercises involving the ship of the U.S. Navy, as well as a ship and aircraft of the Ukrainian navy will be useful for both countries," temporary acting Commander of the Navy of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and Vice-admiral Serhiy Yelyseyev said during a meeting with the captain of the U.S. ship, Mark Harris.