Russia military to expand global presence: Ministry

Russia plans to expand its global military presence by seeking permission for its ships to use ports in Latin America, Asia and beyond.

Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Wednesday that the military is in talks with Algeria, Cyprus, Nicaragua, Venezuela, Cuba, Seychelles, Vietnam and Singapore over the plan, the Associated Press reported.

He noted that it was very important for the Russian Navy to be able to call at the ports to service its ships.

Shoigu also stated that Russia is talking to some of the countries to authorize long-range bombers to use their air bases for refueling.

Russia has launched a massive military modernization program and wants to demonstrate its global reach by sending navy ships around the world.