STRELNA, March 16. /TASS/. Today's snap check of the Russian Armed Forces is traditional practice not connected with the international situation, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday.

"If you read the Defense Ministry’s announcement attentively, you will see that it says a snap [check], so here’s the answer to your question," Peskov said, answering a question on whether the checks are connected with the international situation.

"It was said more than once that the practice of snap checks will become regular, as it is beneficial for improving the mechanisms of control and operation of the Armed Forces. This is an absolutely regular process of the Armed Forces’ operation, of preparation and development of Russia’s Armed Forces," Peskov stressed. He also reminded that Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed this "as a Commander-in-Chief", along with Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu.

The Russian military earlier on Monday launched military drills in the Arctic and the Western Military District involving 38,000 servicemen, 41 ships, 15 submarines and 110 aircraft. The drills will last until March 21.