Russia: Large-scale military exercises in southern Russia, Armenia, and occupied areas of Ukraine and Georgia Aug. 9-Sept. 15

Event

Russian armed forces have begun large-scale exercises in the Southern Military District; the drills are scheduled to continue until Sept. 15. Training grounds involved in the exercises are located in the regions of Astrakhan, Rostov, Stavropol, Kuban, Adygea, Dagestan, North Ossetia, and Chechnya in Russia, Russian military bases in Armenia, the secessionist areas of Abkhazia and South Ossetia in Georgia, and in the Russian-occupied Crimean peninsula of Ukraine.

Road movement of large numbers of military vehicles could cause temporary disruption on regional highways. Naval forces in the Black Sea are also taking part in the exercises, prompting possible disruption to maritime transport and port services. Increased scrutiny of foreigners' identity and visa documentation is likely in the affected area for the duration of the exercises.

Context

The exercises follow a period of heightened tensions between Russia and Western governments, including a build-up of Russian forces near the border with Ukraine in April and Russian forces reportedly firing warning shots near a British naval vessel sailing near the Russian-occupied Crimean Peninsula on June 23. This exercises also precede the extensive Zapad 2021 military exercises that take place every four years and are scheduled to begin in September, involving Belarusian forces. While the exercises are unlikely to threaten neighboring countries, regional governments and NATO allies will closely monitor the actions and are likely to voice concern over any maneuvers that could be interpreted as belligerent. Strong rhetoric is possible, but there is unlikely to be any military or maritime escalation during the exercises.

Advice

Allow additional time for travel in affected areas for the duration of the military exercises. Do not take photographs of security force facilities or units. Avoid discussing military movements or the political situation with strangers. Remain polite and nonconfrontational if questioned by security forces.