Russia raises stakes in Baltic: Naval drills stir tensions

• Russian military activity: In the Kaliningrad Oblast, a strategic military base for Russia, units have left their barracks. At least 10 Russian ships have ventured into the waters of the Baltic Sea.
• Military exercises: Russian media report these maneuvers as a response to the heightened NATO presence in the region, including forces from the United States, Germany, Poland, and the Baltic states.
• Modern weaponry: The Baltic Fleet has announced the deployment of modern weaponry, including advanced Iskander missile systems.

According to information provided by “Fakt,” the Russian military exercises are in response to the increased NATO presence in the region. Recent months have seen exercises involving American, German, Polish, and Baltic forces.

Russian units in the Baltic have conducted simulations of repelling a landing in the Kaliningrad Oblast, aiming to demonstrate their readiness to defend against potential threats.

As reported by "Fakt," Russian media highlight that the Baltic Fleet maneuvers are preparations for rebuffing missile attacks and neutralising hostile ships. The operation in the Baltic Sea involved various units, including small missile ships, landing ships, minesweepers, as well as aircraft and naval aviation helicopters. In this manner, Russia seeks to maintain the narrative of a growing NATO threat.

Russian media warn that NATO forces' presence in the Baltic poses a threat, to which Moscow plans to respond by further strengthening its military potential in the Kaliningrad Oblast. The deployment of additional advanced missile systems, including Iskanders, capable of carrying nuclear warheads, is anticipated.