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Russian Presidential Aide Nikolai Patrushev referred to the need to strengthen the naval forces in an interview with the newspaper Rossiskaya Gazeta on June 15.

Russia should strengthen its position at sea in order to remain a great power, the genuine centre of strength, he said, adding that experience in recent years shows that Russia’s maritime trade and sea border security are prerequisite for the prosperity and stability of the country.

He also disclosed that the West is not only preparing for the blockades of the Baltic and Black seas but also creating a scenario for preemptive attack on the Russian bases, adding that Russia should not tolerate it.

To this end, it is important to ensure the timely deployment of fleets and combat readiness and have the capability to cope with all threats, including drone attack, cyber-attack, subversive activities and sabotage, he noted.