Since the coronavirus took hold in Europe,
Moscow has sent planes of virus experts and aid to
Italy while fighting accusations of spreading disinformation, flexing its "soft power" in various ways during the pandemic.
The
Russian defence ministry released multiple daily statements after the first planes took off for Italy on Sunday, carrying 100 virus specialists with medical equipment, mobile laboratories and disinfection units.
The experts sent to Italy have worked on international epidemics including African Swine Fever and in developing an Ebola vaccine, the ministry said.