Bishkek: Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed the launch of a program aimed at equipping the forces of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) with modern Russian weapons. Speaking at a CSTO leaders' summit in Bishkek, Putin emphasized the effectiveness of Russian military technology in actual combat, suggesting a large-scale initiative to supply these resources to the collective forces.

According to Anadolu Agency, Putin outlined plans for Russia's upcoming chairmanship of the military alliance, set to commence on January 1, 2026. He stressed the importance of collaboration with CSTO allies to enhance the military capabilities of the alliance. The Russian leader highlighted the need to improve the combat readiness of national contingents and command and control mechanisms for collective forces. Despite acknowledging the progress made, Putin noted that substantial work is required to enhance the deployment mechanisms for peacekeeping forces.

Putin identified the development of cooperation between CSTO member states as crucial for ensuring the alliance's technological leadership in military affairs. He emphasized the importance of deepening cooperation between defense industry enterprises and gave special attention to advancing the alliance's aviation and air defense systems.

During Russia's chairmanship, Moscow plans to jointly develop a new CSTO anti-terrorism strategy, focusing on combating extremism. Putin announced that Moscow will host the next CSTO leaders' summit on November 11, 2026.

The CSTO, established in 2002, comprises Russia and several former Soviet states, including Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan. Armenia, another member, suspended its participation in CSTO activities in early 2024.