This handout video grab released by the Russian Defence Ministry on Feb 9, 2022 shows combat crews of the S-400 air defense system taking up combat duty during joint exercises of the armed forces of Russia and Belarus as part of an inspection of the Union State's Response Force, at a firing range in Brest region of Belarus. (HANDOUT / RUSSIAN DEFENCE MINISTRY / AFP)

MOSCOW - Russia's Defense Ministry announced on Thursday the start of the Allied Resolve 2022 joint military exercises, which will be carried out by Russia's Eastern Military District and the Belarusian armed forces.

"The joint exercise began today at the combined arms training grounds in Belarus," the defense ministry said in a statement.

These drills mark the second stage of the exercises, which test the response forces of the Union State of Russia and Belarus

These drills mark the second stage of the exercises, which test the response forces of the Union State of Russia and Belarus.

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The military exercises will be aimed at "countering terrorism and protecting the interests of the Union State," and forces will also train to "suppress and repel external aggression," according to the ministry.

Lasting until Feb 20, the drills will take place at five training grounds and other exercise areas in Belarus.

Troops will practice "strengthening the protection of the state border to prevent the penetration of armed groups of militants," "blocking channels for the delivery of weapons and ammunition," and "destroying illegal armed formations and sabotage and reconnaissance groups of a mock enemy."

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