Latvian residents have no cause for alarm over the military drills the Russian war fleet has commenced in the Baltic Sea this week, said Latvian Minister of Defence Artis Pabriks in an interview to BNN.
«There is no reason to worry, as our own military drills are already underway in the Baltic Sea. It is a classic procedure – when one side holds drills, the other one does the same,» stressed the minister.
When asked if this is not an intimidation tactic from Russia, Pabriks said «no, no one is afraid of their drills, so
there is no reason for concern. Drills like that are organised every year and at the same time.»
When asked if these military drills are a response from Russia to Finland’s and Sweden’s plans to join NATO, the minister said «Russia may attempt to make its presence known in the Baltic Sea and borders of those countries, but in major strides – what can Russia really do? Finland and Sweden plans to enter NATO and no one will ask for permission here.»
BNN previously reported that Russia’s war fleet has commenced drills in the Baltic Sea. Several dozen ships are involved.
Russia commenced drills after Finland and Sweden announced plans to join NATO.
60 ships and 40 aircraft are involved in military drills. In addition to naval activities, Russia has also commenced military drills in Kaliningrad.
In should be added that NATO is also holding its own drills in the Baltic Sea – Baltops 22. These drills will continue until 17 June.