Putin announces the launch of the largest Russian-Belarusian military exercise with the participation of 100,000 soldiers

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced on Tuesday that about 100,000 military personnel are participating in the joint "Zapad 2025" exercises between Russia and Belarus, which raise concerns in Ukraine and European countries.

During his visit to the "Nizhny Novgorod" region, where the exercises are taking place, Putin said: "Today we are conducting the final part of the strategic Zapad 2025 exercise," noting that it is being held in 41 test sites and involves the use of about 10,000 weapon systems and military equipment.

The Russian president explained that the exercises aim to train on the elements of defense for the "Union State" between Russia and Belarus. Putin, who was wearing military attire, also listened to briefings from Defense Minister Andrei Belousov and his deputy.

Reports indicated that several countries, alongside Russia and Belarus, are participating in these military exercises as part of large-scale joint training.