Putin proposes arming CSTO forces with Russian weapons
Addressing the CSTO leaders’ summit in Bishkek, Putin stated: “We propose launching a large-scale program to equip collective forces with modern Russian weapons and equipment that have proven their effectiveness in actual combat,” and added that a series of joint exercises would be organized in line with this initiative.
Highlighting Moscow’s upcoming chairmanship of the alliance starting January 1, 2026, Putin said Russia will work closely with CSTO allies on strengthening the alliance’s military capabilities. He emphasized improving the combat readiness of national contingents, enhancing command and control of collective forces, and refining mechanisms for peacekeeping deployments.
“We see developing cooperation between our states to ensure the CSTO's technological leadership in the military sphere as a key priority for the Russian presidency, and we intend to place particular emphasis on deepening cooperation between defense industry enterprises,” he added. Putin also stressed that aviation and air defense systems within the alliance will receive “special attention.”
The Russian president announced plans to develop a new CSTO anti-terrorism strategy during Moscow’s chairmanship, aimed at more effectively combating extremism. He confirmed that Russia will host the next CSTO leaders’ summit on November 11, 2026.
The CSTO, founded in 2002, is a military alliance composed of Russia and former Soviet republics, including Armenia—which suspended its participation in early 2024—as well as Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan.
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