Russian defense minister inspects forces in battle zone

By Elena Teslova

MOSCOW (AA) – Russian Defense Minister Andrey Belousov has inspected the Sever (North) unit of forces in the battle zone, according to an official statement issued on Thursday.

The Defense Ministry's statement said Belousov met with the commanders, who briefed him on the current situation and the nature of the opponent's actions within the group's area of responsibility, and assigned several tasks.

The minister was shown recent advancements in the development and deployment of drones and robotic systems.

Belousov personally examined the primary means of countering enemy drones, which are being improved by servicemen based on experience gained while completing combat missions on the battlefield.

"The head of the Russian Military Department thanked commanders of the grouping units for outstanding performance in combat operations and awarded state decorations to soldiers who displayed courage, bravery, and heroism," the ministry said.