29 Aug 2018 | 08:53 AM UTC
Russia: Massive military drills planned in far east September 11-15
Russian government announces Vostok-2018 military drills in eastern and central regions September 11-15, largest since 1981
Event
The Russian government has announced that it will hold massive military drill in the eastern and central regions of the country from September 11 through September 15. According to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, the Vostok (East)-2018 exercise will be the largest war games held since 1981. Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said that over 300,000 personnel, 36,000 tanks, and 1000 aircraft will participate in Vostok-2018, along with military personnel from China and Mongolia. An increase military presence and possible disruptions (such as road closures nad flight disruptions) are anticipated during the drills.
Context
Russia held joint military exercises with Belarus in September 2017. According to Peskov, the Vostok-2018 drills are justified due to aggressive and unfriendly attitudes towards Russia from members of the international community.
Advice
Individuals in the area are advised to keep abreast of the situation, obey all instructions issued by local authorities, and avoid areas where military drills are taking place.
