Russia's military invasion of Ukraine continues.
Russian and Ukrainian forces continue to fight in various parts of Ukraine, and many civilians have fled the country.
We will keep you updated on the developments surrounding the situation in Ukraine on the 29th (Japan time), including the situation of the battle and the diplomacy of the countries involved.
(There is a 7 hour time difference between Japan and Ukraine, and a 6 hour time difference with Moscow, Russia)
Russian Defense Minister Shoigu: “Weapons and other manufacturing capabilities are increasing”
On the 28th, Russian Defense Minister Shoigu inspected a weapons factory in Tula, a military industry city south of the capital Moscow.
According to an announcement from the Ministry of Defense, Defense Minister Shoigu was told by the factory that the production volume has increased by four to seven times compared to before, depending on the type of shell.
In response, Minister of Defense Shoigu praised the fact that the period for producing weapons and other items was being shortened, and emphasized that the country's ability to manufacture weapons and ammunition was increasing.
As the invasion of Ukraine continues to drag on, Russia has nearly doubled its defense budget for 2024 compared to the previous year and is working to revitalize its military industry.
Concerns about new flashpoints in Moldova
Meanwhile, in Moldova, which borders Ukraine, a pro-Russian organization is making moves that are causing concern.
On the 28th, a pro-Russian organization that effectively controls the Transnistria region in eastern Moldova requested assistance from Russia, claiming, ``Pressure from the Moldova government is increasing.We demand measures to protect residents.'' Did.
Transnistria is a region that unilaterally declared independence from Moldova in 1990, and is said to have approximately 200,000 ethnic Russian residents, and Russian troops are stationed there.
In response to a request from pro-Russian organizations, the Russian Foreign Ministry issued a statement saying, ``Protecting the interests of our compatriots is always one of our priorities.''
In response, a spokesperson for the Moldovan government, which does not recognize secession, denied the pro-Russian claims, saying, ``There is no rising tension in Transnistria.It is nothing more than propaganda.''
The Sandu administration in Moldova is becoming increasingly pro-Western and aims to join the European Union (EU), so it is wary of any intervention by the Putin administration.