Russia-led military bloc starts military exercises

By Elena Teslova

MOSCOW (AA) - The Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), a regional Russia-led defense alliance, began its two-day military exercises, Cobalt-2024, on Wednesday.

In a statement, the Russian Defense Ministry noted that servicemen from Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, and Tajikistan would coordinate their efforts in repelling attacks from a simulated enemy at the drill in Russia's Novosibirsk region.

The ministry added that participants would also exchange experiences and refine their coordination skills between special forces units.

On the final day of the drill, special forces will conduct exercises involving building and transport assaults, hostage rescues, and neutralizing militants with the support of aviation and drones.

The CSTO comprises six member states -- Russia, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan -- aiming to address security threats, protect territorial integrity, and uphold the sovereignty of its members without interfering in their internal affairs.

Armenia, however, has suspended its participation in the CSTO activities due to a rift over other members' relations with Azerbaijan, following its defeat in last year's war in Karabakh.