Lieutenant Colonel Andrey Smetanin, OSCE (Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe) Russian Military Observer gives an interview in Spanish during the NATO Exercise Trident Juncture 2015. Translation of questions (not heard on camera) and answers follows in English and Russian.
In line with Allies’ international obligations under the Vienna Document, Trident Juncture 2015 was announced in advance. OSCE observers were invited six weeks before the exercise. Roughly a dozen OSCE nations sent observers to TJ15
SOUNDBITE (SPANISH), Lieutenant Colonel Andrey Smetanin, OSCE Russian Military Observer
1. Can you describe what you have seen over the last two days?
“During these 2 days we have seen very interesting places. Two multi-national brigades, regiments and two training areas. For us it is clear, what happens in those areas. All the information has been translated to us and everything was clear to us in each moment and each place. Also, after each stage, briefings have been provided clarifying everything.”
2. Why does your country feel it’s important to send observers to NATO exercises?
“Because for us it is important to work together with NATO countries and The Russian Federation. Because for us its better when we work together. For example, between NATO and The Russian Federation, it is very important because we can cooperate with each other and develop our bilateral relationship between the organization and Russian Armed Forces, and we can resolve all existing questions between us.”
3. In accordance with the Vienna Document 2011, what will you report back to your country?
“Talking about these exercises, we knew about them in the beginning of October in the Russian Federation Military attachment in the Embassy (Madrid). After that we worked on it and prepared for the observation. Thanks to the Spanish Verification Unit’s efforts to prepare the observation, we have worked very well and we haven’t had any problems clarifying whatever needed to be clarified about this exercise.”
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