A Russian Federation Navy Ropuchhka II amphibious assault ship lies at anchor near Vladivostok, Russia, on Aug. 16, 1996, as the ship readies for Exercise Cooperation From the Sea '96. U.S. Navy and Marine Corps units of the 7th Fleet and Russian Federation Navy units are conducting the exercise near the port city of Vladivostok. The purpose of the exercise is to improve interoperability with Russian military forces in conducting disaster relief and humanitarian missions. Personnel exchanges and training will promote cooperation and understanding between the U.S. and Russian Federation Naval Forces.