According to a US source, Russian ships were seen near the area where the drone had crashed, though no parts of the drone appeared to have been recovered

Photo Credit : Reuters,

The Pentagon said on Thursday that it has signs that Russia is likely attempting to retrieve debris from the downed US drone after a Russian intercept over the Black Sea on Tuesday, despite downplaying Moscow's chances of success.

“We have indications that Russia is likely making an effort to recover MQ-9 debris… however, we assess that they would be very unlikely to recover anything useful,” said Brigadier General Patrick Ryder, a Pentagon spokesperson.

According to a US source who spoke on the condition of anonymity, Russian ships were seen near the area where the drone had crashed, though no parts of the drone appeared to have been recovered. It was unclear whether they were still in the neighbourhood.