Russia opens large-scale military drill

MOSCOW, Oct. 7 (UPI) -- The Russian Baltic fleet Friday began the large-scale command-and-staff exercise "Baltika-2005" in the Kaliningrad region.

Much of the focus was on measures to oppose international terrorism and protect Russia's interests in the Baltic Sea, Itar-Tass reported. The operation is to run through Wednesday.

"These issues are extremely topical for the westernmost Russian region due to its special geographical location," Gen. Yuri Baluyevsky, chief of the general staff, told reporters.

Forces of the Baltic fleet and other troops and military groups are involved in the exercise.