Putin signed the document shortly before delivering a patriotic speech on Navy Day, calling on Russia to defend its national security interests, according to Reuters. The 55-page naval doctrine says Russia will seek to become a “major maritime navy” with a worldwide presence to counter the “US strategic policy of dominating the world’s oceans.” “Guided by this doctrine, the Russian Federation will vigorously and resolutely defend its national interests in the world’s oceans, and having sufficient sea power will guarantee their security and protection,” the doctrine states, according to Reuters. He also says that Russia will expand its ambitions in the Arctic Ocean. The US has previously warned Russia and China of aggression in the Arctic region. Speaking in the city of St Petersburg on the banks of the Neva River later in the day, Putin said Russia would “defend our interests” in disputed territory. “We must take decisive action today, given the challenges we face,” the Russian leader said. “Homeland for everyone is a sacred concept. We have to defend it.” As Putin finished, he earned a big “hoorah” from sailors and naval officers gathered for Navy Day, which is celebrated on the last Sunday in July. Putin did not mention the war in Ukraine, but pledged to defend Russian naval power in the Black and Azov seas. “We must rely on our capabilities, and anyone who wants to threaten our sovereignty will receive a strong response,” Putin said. Pelosi begins Asia trip without mentioning Taiwan bill Manchin-Schumer could reduce deficit. Inflation — that’s debatable The Russian president ordered an invasion of Ukraine in late February, in part because he feared Ukraine would join the Western NATO security alliance. With the US spending billions to arm Ukraine, tensions between Moscow and Washington are higher than at any time since the Cold War. However, Foreign Secretary Anthony Blinken and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov held their first call since the start of the war on Friday to discuss a possible prisoner exchange.
