Russian Marines in Kerch Strait in Full Combat Readiness Amid Drills

Russian marines in the Kerch Strait, which connects the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov, are in full combat readiness amid military exercises conducted in the region, the Defense Ministry said.

MOSCOW (Sputnik) — According to the ministry's Wednesday statement, the marines are stationed in a village located in Russia's Krasnodar Territory, about 60 kilometers (37 miles) from the Kerch Strait, which separates Crimea from the rest of Russia.

"All combat training activities are conducted in conditions similar to those of real military activities, with the use of simulation tools," the Russian Defense Ministry said.

The marines are now constructing fortifications in the area in preparation for the military exercises.

Earlier this week, a number of Russian military divisions were brought to full alert and started preparing for snap combat readiness drills.

March is the busiest period in terms of combat training in Russia. It precedes the final military checks.