There is widespread agreement among defense experts that Russia has begun preparing for the new regional conflict.
These days Russia holds the largest military exercise since 1981 on the soil and in the waters of Russia’s Far East and in the neighboring waters of the Pacific Ocean.
President Vladimir Putin said that Russia will continue to strengthen its armed forces so that they are able to defend the sovereignty of the country and support allies. He said this while inspecting the troops at the Tsugol firing range, where the Vostok 2018 exercise was held.
The head of the military department also noted that Vostok 2018 maneuvers are the largest event of the Russian Armed Forces combat training. It involves about 300,000 servicemen, over 1,000 aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles, 80 ships, and 36,000 tanks and other vehicles.
According to General of the Army Sergei Shoigu, at the event troops will enhance field, naval and air training, practice operations in eastern direction and marine and ocean regions of operational importance.
“Therefore, we will continue to strengthen our armed forces, equip them with latest weapons and technologies, to develop international military cooperation,” Putin said.
Putin called Russia a peace-loving state, which does not and cannot have aggressive plans.
“Russia is a peace-loving state. We do not and cannot have aggressive plans,” the head of state said.
“Our foreign policy is aimed at constructive cooperation with all countries that are interested in it,” he added.
“That’s why 87 observers from 59 countries attend these maneuvers and I welcome all of them,” the president said.
