Turkey has announced the expansion of its gas field exploration operations in a disputed area in the Eastern Mediterranean, despite calls from the European Union to cut tensions, AFP reports.

In a maritime notice (Navtex) issued on Saturday to Sunday night, the Turkish navy announces that the multi-month drilling vessel Yavuz off the coast of Cyprus will conduct explorations in the southwest of the island between August 18 and September 15, according to Agerpres.

“We strongly recommend that you avoid traveling to the area,” the Turkish navy warned in the message.

Last week, Ankara deployed the warship Oruç Reis, escorted by warships, in an area claimed by Greece, provoking Athens’ anger and EU concerns.

Oruç Reis operates between Cyprus and the Greek island of Crete until August 23.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Saturday he was ready for dialogue, but stressed that Ankara will not back down “in the face of sanctions and threats.”