For several months now since November, the leaders of the west, Russia, and indeed the United States have been engaged in an escalating war of words. The political shadow boxing has been over a possible Russian incursion into Ukraine, in the aftermath of Russia having amassed almost over a hundred thousand troops along the borders with eastern Ukraine.

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Russian and Tajik troops on Friday held a joint exercise near Tajikistan's border with Afghanistan as part of efforts to prepare for potential security threats from Afghanistan.

Russian and Tajik troops hold joint drills at the Momirak firing range in Tajikistan

Russia's nuclear-capable bombers flew over the Mediterranean Sea as part of military exercises involving warplanes and warships. The Russian forces had earlier conducted sea and air exercises in the Pacific which reportedly included a mock attack on an aircraft carrier.

Russia's nuclear-capable bombers fly over Mediterranean Sea in military drill

Russian military held joint exercises with its navy and Air Force in the Pacific. The military used warships, submarines and supporting aviation, including Tu-142mz long-range anti-submarine aircraft as part of the exercise.

Russia conducts military drills in Pacific with warships, aircraft and submarines