Russia’s Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu made a rare visit to frontline troops on Friday, as tensions with neighboring countries continue to rise. Shoigu’s visit to troops stationed in the Voronezh region, located near the border with Ukraine, comes amid reports of increased military activity in the region.
What was Sergei Shoigu’s visit all about?
During his visit, Sergei Shoigu inspected the troops and held talks with senior military officials. The Defense Minister was accompanied by a large delegation of military leaders, including the head of the Russian Army, General Oleg Salyukov.
Speaking to reporters after the visit, Sergei Shoigu emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong military presence in the region, saying that it was necessary to ensure the security of Russia’s borders.
“The situation in the region remains tense, and it is our duty to ensure the safety of our citizens and the territorial integrity of our country,” Sergei Shoigu said.
Shoigu’s visit to the frontline troops comes amid reports of increased military activity in the Voronezh region, which has caused concern among neighboring countries. Last month, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of deploying more than 80,000 troops near the border, calling it a “threat to the entire region.”
Russian defence minister pays rare visit to troops at the Ukraine frontline
Russia has denied any aggressive intentions, saying that its military buildup is purely defensive in nature. However, the country has warned that it will take necessary measures to protect its security interests if threatened.
What is Russia doing to make its defense better?
The visit by the Defense Minister also comes as Russia continues to modernize its military, investing heavily in new weapons and technology. Earlier this week, Russian President Vladimir Putin unveiled a new strategic missile system, saying that it was designed to “maintain global stability and balance of power.”
The missile system, called the Sarmat, is capable of carrying nuclear warheads and has a range of over 11,000 kilometers. Putin said that the system was designed to replace the aging R-36M2 missile, which has been in service since the 1970s.
The modernization of Russia’s military has been a key priority for Putin, who has sought to restore the country’s status as a major military power. The Russian government has allocated significant resources to the military, with defense spending accounting for more than 4% of GDP.
However, the country’s increased military activity has raised concerns among its neighbors and prompted criticism from the international community. The United States and European Union have called on Russia to de-escalate tensions and engage in dialogue with its neighbors.
In response, Russia has accused the West of interfering in its internal affairs and attempting to contain its growing influence. The country has also criticized NATO’s expansion towards its borders, calling it a threat to its security.
Despite the tensions, Sergei Shoigu’s visit to the frontline troops was described as a routine inspection. The Defense Minister emphasized that the troops were well-equipped and ready to defend Russia’s borders if necessary.
“We have a strong and capable army, and we will do everything necessary to protect our country,” Shoigu said.
Top of Form
