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Russia is secretive about the cost of its massive military exercises. Asked by journalists, if the cost of holding the exercises was justified at a time when Russia is facing an increase in social spending, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that the war games were essential. .
"The country's ability to defend itself in the current international situation, often aggressive and hostile towards our country, means [it] is justified, "Peskov told reporters during a conference call.
This year's games take place in the far east of Russia (hence the name "Vostok", which means "East"), but annual exercises usually take place every year in different parts of the country. . Last year, they stood in the west ("Zapad") of the country with "Zapad 2017" along its borders with northeastern Europe, much to the chagrin of his neighbors.
The exercises take place at a time when relations between Russia and the rest of the world are strained. He is being sued by allegations that he participated in the 2016 US elections and was allegedly responsible for a nerve agent attack in the United Kingdom. His military role in Syria has also caused divisions with the West. As such, his large-scale military exercises often cause consternation in the West.
But Valery Gerasimov, the Russian chief of staff, insisted last week that Vostok 2018 exercises are purely defensive in nature and are not aimed at any other country.
"The maneuvers are not directed against other countries and are consistent with our military doctrine, which is defensive in nature," he said, the Interfax news agency reported.
Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu gave more details on Vostok 2018 last week, saying that exercises would be organized on nine test sites, including four Air Force and Air Defense sites and three seas: the Sea of Japan, the Bering Sea and the sea of Okhotsk. TASS reported.
