Vostok-22 exercises have begun in Russia. Such actions do not threaten Ukraine and, perhaps, it is even good that they are taking place.
Alexander Musienko, head of the Center, told about this for Channel 24 military legal research. He said that let more Russian troops be in the Far East.
“The “vastok” exercises have a propaganda purpose. Russia thus wants to demonstrate that there are countries that are ready to take part in joint exercises with it, and it seems that Russia is not in such total international isolation,” Musienko said.
China is afraid of Western sanctions
The expert said that China and India sent their representatives. This is a small amount compared to what it could be.
It is clear that everyone is trying to use Russia in their own way, because neither China nor India is interested in an escalation and serious confrontation with the West. However, there is Russia that is ready. And in this direction, everyone wants to use it for their own interests,” the expert said.
Musienko noted that for some reason Vladimir Putin did not go to these exercises. Perhaps he will visit later, because the training is until September 7th. The Russian president left for Kaliningrad, but not for the opening of these exercises, although the propaganda speaks of their friendship with China.
“By the way, regarding China. There was information from several sources that one of the Chinese major companies producing engines refused to sell them to the KamAZ concern. They are afraid of Western sanctions. And by the way, they refused at the direction of the Chinese government,” the expert said. .
According to Musienko, China has one position at the level of statements and political slogans. To a certain extent, it can be called pro-Russian, but in their actions they are in no hurry to help Russia militarily.
What is happening in Belarus
Regarding the exercises in Belarus, Musienko believes that it is more difficult to say when these exercises did not take place during this year. There, one training ends and immediately continues or another begins.
This has been the state of affairs since April 2022. The Belarusian army is training to cover the state border, but at the same time, strike groups of Belarusian troops have not been created. I think that Lukashenka is well aware that this means the end of his political career. And, perhaps, not only political, – said Musienko.
He believes that part of the Belarusian army could unite with Belarusians fighting against Russian troops and deprive Lukashenka of power. According to the expert, it should be understood that Belarus lost time to enter the war. It was more logical to do this when the Russian forces were advancing and were in Bucha, Irpin and near Gostomel than now. However, threats should not be rejected.
