Top Military Official Gives a Powerful Statement About the Future of Russia
Russia’s Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu discussed future threats and challenges with Russian President Vladimir Putin last week
The head of Russia’s military shared thoughts about the direction of their nation’s military with its leader
Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin on June 23rd to discuss future challenges that Russia will face in the realm of national security.
According to Tass, Shoigu emphasized three main points during his talk with President Putin. Firstly, he discussed the increased military activity near Russia’s borders. Secondly, he warned of new threats posed by NATO. Finally, he outlined three primary challenges Russia will soon need to overcome.
Let’s break down the details of the Defense Minister's points:
Increased Military Activity
Minister Shoigu shared that NATO has significantly increased the number of military exercises taking place near Russia’s borders. He stated that there were 10 major military exercises alone taking place in June of 2023. This is in contrast to last year, where only three NATO military exercises were conducted near Russia’s borders in June.
Shoigu further reported that NATO countries have increased the number of military aircraft patrolling near Russia’s borders. In June of 2022, NATO aircraft were patrolling near Russia only 100–200 times per month. In June of 2023, that number has climbed to 600–700 times per month.
The Evolving Threat of NATO
Minister Shoigu shared with President Putin that NATO is increasing the number of troops stationed in member nations that border Russia. The largest increases are taking place in Poland and the Baltic states. These troops are not just being stationed, but are also being trained and equipped with new, state-of-the-art weapons.
According to shoigu, NATO is also training Ukrainian Armed Forces personnel. This has created a well-trained, motivated, and experienced military in Ukraine. Shoigu warned that this is a significant threat to Russia, as Ukraine is now well prepared to defend itself and its interests.
Three Main Challenges for Russia
Minister Shoigu laid out three primary challenges that Russia must overcome in the near future. These challenges are:
- Overcoming advanced weapons systems wielded by NATO and Ukraine
- Countering the threat of informational and psychological warfare
- Adjusting Russian military strategy to account for new and emerging challenges
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