[HIGHLIGHTS] "The first stage was held at a very high level": Putin and Shoigu discussed a sudden check of the forces of the Pacific Fleet

Russian leader Vladimir Putin said that the first stage of a surprise check of the Pacific Fleet was held at a very high level. Putin called for the continuation of this work, noting that the tasks of developing the fleet, including in the Pacific theater, "have not been canceled, not removed" The final stage of the surprise inspection will begin on April 18, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said.

The minister said that more than 25 thousand military personnel, 167 warships and support vessels, including 12 submarines, 89 aircraft and helicopters, were involved.