Russian Deputy Defense Minister Anatoly Antonov explained the nature of the Russian snap combat readiness drills which began on Monday, contrasting them with the upcoming US exercises, which he compared to a "Boy Scout March."
"More than anything, they organize some sort of Boy Scout marches, or as we call them, pioneers, who go around with suspenders on and carry colorful flags."
Antonov contrasted the exercises and resultant march to Germany with Russia's combat readiness drills which began in the country's Western and Central Military Districts on Monday:
"This is not a clanging of tank treads, or a rattling of sabres, or a flexing of muscles. We don't act like some countries, which cockily demonstrate their strength at Russia's borders, transferring their personnel, armaments and equipment to foreign territory."
Antonov added that Russia is welcoming all foreign military attaches to come to the National Military Control Center on Saturday, where the combat readiness drills will be explained. Saying that the readiness drills "confirmed the importance, necessity and efficacy of raising combat readiness."
"It is important that drills of this sort become a routine part of the Army and Navy's existence. These sorts of drills will be continued in the future."