Russia Steps Up Saber Rattling with Massive Military Drill

Russia completed a massive combat readiness check after the snap drill was called for by President Vladimir Putin.

The drills began on July 17 with the surprise decision. Units from the Southern and Western military districts, including marine infantry and Northern and Pacific fleets were all involved. Airborne forces were also deployed.

This looks like it was a massive exercise and Russia’s TASS news agency says 56 separate drills took place at 52 training ranges. In total, some 150,000 troops, 400 aircraft, and 26,000 vehicles and equipment, as well as 100 warships and support vessels participated. Russia says the surprise inspection came in relation to various terrorist threats and the Kavkav 2020 exercise. It also came amid Azerbaijan-Armenia clashes that began in mid-July.

Deputy Defense Minister Alexander Fomin said that the drill was not aimed at other countries. However, the reality is that Russia and the US have been having increased tensions with several incidents involving aircraft interceptions in both the Mediterranean and Pacific. (JPost / VFI News)

Everyone who is arrogant in heart is an abomination to the Lord; be assured, he will not go unpunished. —Proverbs 16:5

“God, we ask that you spare us the horror of another world war. We thank you that you have the kingdoms of this earth in your hands and that ultimately you are in control.”