Ukrainian navy head removed, faces treason probe

KIEV, Ukraine (AP) — A Ukrainian security official says the head of the country's navy has been dismissed and faces a treason investigation after declaring allegiance to the pro-Russian government of the Crimea region.

Deputy National Security Council Secretary Viktoria Siumar told journalists at a briefing that Adm. Denis Berezovsky had been fired and replaced by another officer. She said he had offered no resistance when his headquarters was surrounded by pro-Russian forces and then transferred his allegiance to the regional parliament in Crimea.

The parliament has elected a pro-Russian leader who says he does not recognize the newly elected central government.