Putin Praises Russian Navy's Performance Amid Pacific Fleet Drills and Ukraine Tensions

Russian President Vladimir Putin has emphasized the importance of developing the country's naval capabilities following drills conducted by the Pacific Fleet. The exercises involved 25,000 personnel, 89 aircraft and helicopters, as well as 167 warships, including 12 submarines. Putin warned that the fleet "can certainly be used in conflicts in any direction." The drills were seen as routine signaling to consolidate ties with China and send a warning to Japan regarding any potential ambitions to retake the Kuril Islands.