Keeping rivalries aside, Russia and the United States will join a naval exercise in Indonesia’s Bali. Ukraine may be upset with the development, but the naval forces of the two countries and China, India, Australia, and other Quad nations from February 16 to February 22. Over 30 nations are participating in the drill.
According to Eurasian Times, the Indonesian Navy chief said 38 nations and 19 foreign warships are participating in the 5th Multilateral Naval Exercise Komodo (MNEK). He said the drill is being conducted in the water of Tanjung Benoa, Bali. As many as seven choppers will participate in the drill. Indonesia extends invitations to North Korea each year, but Pyongyang has never sent its warship. Russia is sending its warship from the Pacific fleet, while the United States is representing the USS Dewey (DDG-105), a guided missile destroyer. India has made its presence by deploying INS Shardul and the Long Range Maritime aircraft P8 I.
The naval exercise aims to increase cooperation between the Navies to provide relief and humanitarian assistance during disasters. US and Russian Navies’ joint drill in Indonesian waters is an attempt to give a clear message to the world. Due to the Ukraine war, there has been tension between the US and Russia. Now, the US is increasing its role for the stability in the Indian Pacific region while Russia is trying to establish cordial relations with regional countries amid tension with West and NATO countries.
The Russian media has highlighted the involvement of Russian warships in drills along with NATO nations. The former commander of Russia’s Pacific fleet said it is a major change in foreign policy as all nations come together in agreement.
