In a recent development, the Russian Pacific Fleet has undergone a surprise inspection, with President Vladimir Putin stating that the fleet is prepared for conflicts «in any direction,» according to the Kremlin. The inspection, led by Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, involved the review of thousands of military personnel, warships, support vessels, submarines, aircraft, and helicopters.
The chief concern of the Russian armed forces continues to be the Ukrainian theater and newly annexed territories, as stated by Putin in response to a briefing by Shoigu. However, Putin emphasized that the operations of the Pacific Fleet had not been canceled, indicating the fleet’s readiness for potential conflicts.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov further elaborated on Putin’s statement, mentioning that the international environment is turbulent, with conflicts in various regions, and the inspection and exercises are aimed at addressing potential aggression from a potential enemy in oceanic and sea areas.
The surprise inspection, which started on April 14, included preparations for sudden conflicts, close and distant combat operations, repelling missile and air strikes, anti-submarine operations, as well as joint artillery and missile attacks on enemy naval groups, as highlighted by Shoigu. The objective of the exercises and inspections, according to the Russian Defense Ministry, is to enhance the combat readiness of the Pacific Fleet.
The inspection is set to conclude on April 18 with joint exercises against simulated enemy submarines and mock enemy ship groupings. Participants are then expected to return to their deployment positions, as stated by Shoigu.
It’s worth noting that all exercises are conducted in accordance with international law, as emphasized by Peskov. However, the situation with Russia’s Pacific Fleet and its readiness for potential conflicts will continue to be monitored closely by international observers, given the ongoing tensions in various regions of the world.
In conclusion, the surprise inspection of Russia’s Pacific Fleet, along with Putin’s assertion of readiness for conflicts, has drawn attention to the ongoing military developments in the region. The situation remains fluid, and any further developments will be closely monitored by the international community.