Russian Military Maneuvers In Arctic Comply With International Regulations - Admiral

Russia carries out maneuvers of military aviation and ships in the Arctic in accordance with the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, the former commander of the Baltic Fleet, Adm.

MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 15th October, 2018) Russia carries out maneuvers of military aviation and ships in the Arctic in accordance with the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, the former commander of the Baltic Fleet, Adm. Vladimir Valuev, told Sputnik.

Earlier in the day, Gen. Jeff Mac Mutri, the head of the operations of the Marine Corps of the Netherlands, said that Russian warships and aircraft were provoking the UK and Dutch military, while holding exercises in the Arctic. According to Mac Mutri, the number of Russian warships has significantly increased compared to past decades, while Russian warplanes are now approaching NATO forces closer than in the past.

"Our maneuvers are regulated by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea of 1972.

No one has forbidden Russia to perform maneuvers in the open skies and sea in accordance with these rules. If a ship crossed the course of another vessel closer than it is written in the regulations, this fact is documented and then the proceedings start with consequent measures. If such a fact is not registered, this is just empty words," Valuev said.

In late September, UK Defense Minister Gavin Williamson unveiled the country's new Defense Arctic Strategy, citing increasing threats in the region and Russia's alleged attempts to militarize it.

The Russian Defense Ministry has repeatedly stated that it carries out all the voyages of ships and flights of aircraft in strict accordance with international rules, without violating the borders of other states.