Large-scale military exercises in Russia completed today

31.08.2016
Russia

The unscheduled drill affected a number of regions in the country and caused panic in NATO countries.

The whole story

From August 25th to 31st, 2016, in accordance with the decision of the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, a sudden inspection of the combat readiness of troops and resources in the South, Western, and Central Military Districts, along with the Northern Fleet, High Command of Aerospace Forces, and Airborne Troops Command was conducted.

The tasks

As part of the verification exercises, groups were deployed to carry out tactical and strategic missions, including logistics planning and the organizing of cooperation (including the work of civil authorities).

Defense worked on intercepting simulated enemy aircraft.

Attack helicopters carried out training missions and practiced shooting at nighttime.

The Black Sea Fleet and Caspian Flotilla practiced rescue activities with surface ships, submarines, and carrier-based aircraft.

The anxiety of detractors

The usual criticism by the NATO leadership and Ukraine followed. Kiev particularly resented the transfer of troops to the Crimean Peninsula. Western countries have expressed that Russia is not acting predictably, as if Moscow was obliged to give an account of all its actions. Apparently, the EU and the US have once again forgotten that Russia is a sovereign state and does what it sees fit, including ensuring its national interests by force.

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