Washington, D.C. — The Russian Defense Minister warned a senior U.S. general this week about a massive military drill that is to take place soon in the Mediterranean. This warning was given during a tense conversation between the military leaders of the two nations, further worrying about increasing tension in the region.
It is reported that Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu told the United States the exercises would begin in several days and involve thousands of troops, warships, and aircraft. He stressed they are routine and defensive exercises, but he emphasized the complexity and size of that exercise.
“This is just a regular training exercise, but because of its scale, it cannot be overlooked,” Shoigu is heard saying over the phone during the call. The drills should last several days, starting with live-fire exercises, going through amphibious landings, to air maneuvers tightly watched by NATO allies and others in the region.
The Mediterranean has become a theatre of military activities with frequent operations conducted by NATO and the Russian forces over recent months. For analysts, conducting exercises at this time could be interpreted as an indication that Moscow is trying to send a message to the West about Russia’s growing presence in the region.
General Milley assured Shoigu of American commitments to Mediterranean security and close support for their NATO allies. This U.S. general assured to closely monitor the situation, although the Pentagon’s involvement remains unclear.
This phone call comes rather presently to a very sticky geopolitical situation, exerting pressure of tension, with respect to Russia’s military action in Ukraine and increased military presence in the eastern Mediterranean. Both sides emphasize that dialogue is rather essential; however, the exhibition of military in the area raises concerns about miscalculation or escalation.
Military observers will closely watch the drill as it unfolds, fearing they could strain relations further between Russia and NATO countries.
