The results of snap combat readiness drills conducted last month have confirmed that training in the Russian military has improved, President Vladimir Putin said Friday.
"The intensity and quality of the forces' training have improved," Putin said at a ceremony attended by senior commanders.
Putin added the improvement was aided by defense purchases last year, which have equipped the army and navy with modern weapons.
The country's military budget stands at about 2.5 trillion rubles ($70 billion), making it the world's third largest behind the U.S. and China.
Last month, Putin ordered snap military drills in Russia's Western and Central military districts, which border Ukraine. The exercises involved aircraft and dozens of vessels from the Baltic and Northern Fleets.
Moscow said the drills had no relation to the political standoff between Russia and the West over the Crimea region, which joined Russia from Ukraine last week.
Russia is expected to conduct large-scale military exercises in the Eastern Military District in September.
The Defense Ministry said earlier that snap checks are to be conducted on a regular basis to ensure constant combat readiness.
The ministry said in November that government spending on military equipment will increase 25 percent this year, to 1.7 trillion rubles, up from 1.35 trillion rubles last year.
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
