The maneuvers, named "Ocean Shield 2023," began on Wednesday, and approximately 6,000 troops are participating in the operation, according to a statement from the Russian defense ministry.
The exercises are being conducted under the leadership of Admiral Nikolai Yevmenev, the Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Naval Forces. The purpose of the maneuvers, as per the official communiqué, is to assess the navy's readiness to safeguard Russia's national interests in a strategically vital region.
The end date for the exercises has not been disclosed.
Meanwhile, in response to the ongoing naval exercises, Polish President Andrzej Duda is scheduled to make a working visit to the Marine Operations Center and the 3rd Fleet of Ships in Gdynia.
During his visit, Duda will receive a briefing on the current security situation in the Baltic Sea, with a particular emphasis on the Russian naval forces' activities, state news agency PAP reported.
Tensions in the region remain heightened as both military drills and diplomatic engagements continue to shape the dynamics between Russia and its neighbors, with the situation being closely monitored by the international community.
(jh/gs)
Source: PAP, Reuters