Russian President Vladimir Putin accused the United States of provoking an arms race and emphasized the need for Russia to be prepared for any development in the global geo-political situation. Putin made these remarks while attending joint navy drills with China in the Sea of Japan as part of the larger ‘Ocean-2024’ exercise.
The exercise includes naval drills across various oceans and seas, with the aim of checking combat readiness and strengthening military cooperation with friendly states. Putin highlighted the importance of such collaborations given the growing tensions in the world.
Putin criticized the US for increasing military presence near Russia’s borders and in the Asia-Pacific region under the pretext of countering threats from Russia and China. The Russian leader stressed the need for Russia to be prepared for any scenario.
The naval exercises, which are expected to last until September 16, involve over 90,000 troops, more than 400 warships, submarines, and support vessels, as well as 120 aircraft and helicopters. The drills are described as the largest of their kind in three decades by the Russian Defense Ministry.
These joint exercises between Russia and China come amidst escalating tensions between Russia and the West, with Putin’s accusations against the US likely to further strain relations between the two countries.
Source
Photo credit www.euronews.com