MOSCOW. April 17 (Interfax) - Russian President Vladimir Putin has lauded the first stage of a surprise readiness check in the Pacific Fleet and has tasked Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu with conducting similar checks in other Russian fleets.
Shoigu briefed Putin on the Pacific Fleet exercises on Monday. Putin tasked Shoigu with continuing to develop the Navy, including the Pacific Fleet. "Attention should also be paid to the development and preparations for similar events in other fleets," he said.
"Clearly, certain components of fleet forces can be engaged in conflicts in any area," Putin said.
"Please keep this in mind. In fact, the [Defense] Ministry in general and the General Staff are doing it, as I know. Meanwhile the first stage of the surprise check has been held at a truly high level," he said.
Putin thanked everyone who organized this work.