Putin Oversees Test Rocket Launches Ahead Of Holiday, Says Pre-Planned

[May 08, 2014]  MOSCOW (Reuters) - President Vladimir Putin oversaw test launches of Russia's most powerful rockets on Thursday during military training exercises held across Russia ahead of celebrations of the anniversary of its World War Two victory.

"We are carrying out tests of the readiness of the Russian armed forces. It was announced in November last year. The exercises will involve all branches of the armed forces across the country," said Putin speaking to reporters at the Defense Ministry.

(Reporting by Darya Korsunskaya, Writing by Thomas Grove, Editing by Gabriela Baczynska)

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