Russia's navy has begun massive naval exercises in the Baltic and Caspian Seas, involving 150 ships and 15,000 troops, sparking alarm in the Baltic states.

Russia has launched naval exercises dubbed 'July Storm', deploying more than 150 ships, 120 aircraft and 15,000 troops in the Baltic and Caspian Seas. The exercises, which will run from July 23-27, include anti-submarine warfare missions and protection of maritime economic zones. The Baltic states are on alert, fearing increased Russian activity amid sanctions imposed on the Russian fleet. Russian strategic bombers also flew over the Bering Sea, demonstrating Moscow's military strength.