Russian & German soldiers bridge language barrier

In a rare show of solidarity amid increasing tensions between NATO and Russia, German paratroopers have visited the Russian city of Pskov to take part in a joint training mission.

Some of the German soldiers have taken part in special operations in Afghanistan and have served as peacekeepers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

This training exercise in Russia is not only about picking up different military techniques.

“One of the most important things about serving in the world's conflict zones is being able to communicate between different cultures. On this mission the infamous language barrier has miraculously not been a problem,” said Arnos Chnoberl, NCO, German Army. 

In a week the Russian hosts will go to Germany to take part in similar exercises.

“I wouldn't say that one side is better or worse than the other. They're just regular soldiers – it's how they're led that matters,” said Sergey Eremin, deputy regiment commander.

The Germans have set a precedent – a team of Indian commandos will arrive in Pskov in September.