Russia’s Military Drills in Mediterranean Comply With International Norms

Russia holds military exercises in the Mediterranean on a regular basis, and does so in full compliance with international norms, the country’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told journalists on Friday.

“Regarding the drills in the Mediterranean, I would say that I don’t have the information on its schedule, but it is a well-known fact that our Navy holds such exercises on a regular basis. They are held in full compliance with the international norms for events of such a scale,” said Sergei Lavrov.

The day before, Russia had warned nearby air carriers about the missile-firing exercises in the Mediterranean, off the Syrian coast, east of Cyprus.

The drills are set to last until September 17.

Also on Friday, the top diplomat said Russia will continue delivering military equipment to Syria to provide it with sorely needed defense capabilities.

The minister underlined that Russia is not simply supporting Syrian president Bashar Assad, but rather Damascus' fight against the Islamic State. He also called on participants of the international coalition against the extremist group to cooperate with the Syrian army.