Russian President Vladimir Putin said Moscow would respond in kind to any attempt to seize Russian merchant vessels. He made the statement during the final stage of Pacific Fleet exercises.

Putin said NATO was expanding its presence in the region, while new military-political blocs were being formed and additional weapons systems were being deployed or planned for deployment. According to him, these developments create security threats for Russia.

The president stressed that Moscow has no claims against Tokyo. At the same time, he noted that Japan had, for the first time, listed Russia among the main threats in its doctrinal documents.

Putin also said Russia remains open to cooperation in the Arctic, including on the Northern Sea Route, provided such interaction is conducted within the framework of international law.

Turning to the Pacific Fleet drills, Putin said the exercises are necessary to maintain a high level of combat readiness and ensure security. He added that Pacific Fleet units are fully carrying out the tasks assigned to them.

The military exercises, aimed at protecting maritime borders, island areas and coastal territories of the Russian Far East, began on August 4. They are being led by Pacific Fleet Commander Admiral Viktor Liin and represent the fleet’s main operational and combat training event of the year.

Around 60 ships, submarines and support vessels are taking part, along with approximately 30 aircraft, helicopters and drones and more than 13,000 military personnel. The exercises are being held in the Sea of Japan, the Sea of Okhotsk and the north-western Pacific Ocean.