If these plans are put into practice, we will be forced to respond correspondingly," President Putin warned on August 12.
The Russian leader emphasized that Moscow's response will not be limited to areas where Russian ships may be seized, "but anywhere we find necessary and appropriate - anywhere, including the area of responsibility of the Pacific Fleet".
Speaking to Russian sailors, Mr. Putin asked them to pay special attention to this issue. "Related instructions have been issued to the Ministry of Defense and the Pacific Fleet Command has been notified of this, so I will wait for proposals in this direction," the head of the Russian State said.
The fact that the directive has been transferred to the Ministry of Defense shows that Moscow is not stopping at verbal warnings, but is preparing specific action plans on the ground.
Along with a tough message, the Russian President affirmed that while aiming to strengthen national security, Russia is still ready to seek acceptable compromises with neighboring and friendly countries. "We are ready to do so on the basis of respecting each other's interests," Putin stated.
