Vasily Piskarev: The Units of the Collective Forces Have Shown a High Level of Combat Coordination

Vasily Piskarev, Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Security and Corruption Control, commented on the progress of the exercise of the CSTO Collective Rapid Reaction Force, which took place in the Republic of Belarus.

“I observed the Vzaimodeystviye 2023 exercise of the CSTO Collective Rapid Reaction Force near Brest. Today, as part of the large-scale exercise, which is taking place in Belarus, a practical episode of blocking and destroying an illegal armed formation was simulated. The word ‘simulation’ means practising to repel an attack of militants who have broken through the border.

The units of the Collective Forces showed a high level of combat coordination, demonstrated the unity of approaches and readiness of the CSTO Member States to effectively confront any challenges and threats,” the parliamentarian said.

He added that in times when NATO countries are increasing the number of troops and weapons in neighbouring countries, and when Western intelligence services are using various terrorist groups to create tension on the borders of the CSTO countries and send in saboteurs, such exercises should be held regularly.

“Russia today has unique experience in combat operations and combating terrorism, and we have something to share with our allies,” Mr Piskarev added.

As you may recall, on September 6, members of the Coordination Meeting of Chairpersons of Committees on Defence and Security of CSTO countries took part as observers in the Vzaimodeystviye 2023 joint exercise with the CSTO CRRF.