Russia to reposition navy drills to avoid disturbing Irish fishermen
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As a gesture of goodwill, Russia will relocate the exercises of the Russian Navy planned for February 3-8.
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Russia moves naval exercises outside Ireland’s Exclusive Economic Zone.
Russian Ambassador to Ireland Yuriy Filatov said on Saturday that Russia has decided to relocate Russian navy exercises planned for early February in the Atlantic to the outside of Ireland's exclusive economic zone so as not to interfere with the activities of Irish fishermen.
In a statement, Filatov added, "In response to the requests from the Irish government as well as from the Irish South and West Fish Producer's Organization the Minister of Defense of the Russian Federation Sergey Shoigu has made a decision, as a gesture of goodwill, to relocate the exercises of the Russian Navy, planned for February 3-8, outside the Irish exclusive economic zone (EEZ), with the aim not to hinder fishing activities by the Irish vessels in the traditional fishing areas.”
At the same time, the Ambassador emphasized that the exercises are conducted in strict accordance with international law and pose no threat to Ireland.
The Irish government issued a safety notice to all sailors on Thursday, warning them about upcoming Russian military drills. According to the Embassy, Filatov then met with a delegation of fish producers who had previously promised to "peacefully interfere" with the planned exercises and reached an agreement.
The Russian Ambassador previously stated that the naval exercises posed "no threat to Ireland or anyone else," and that "no harm is intended" and "no problem is expected."
