In an interview with ‘Sputnik,’ he added: ‘The activities of the UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force, which is tasked with rapid response in the Arctic, North Atlantic, and Baltic Sea areas, are also increasing. During the exercises conducted under the umbrella of these forces, training includes scenarios such as maritime blockades and control of the Kaliningrad region.’ Grushko affirmed: ‘NATO is deliberately moving towards escalating confrontation in this part of Europe.’
It is noted that in recent years, Russia has observed unprecedented NATO activity near its western borders. The alliance describes this as a ‘deterrent against Russian aggression.’ Moscow has repeatedly expressed concern over the strengthening of NATO forces in Europe.
The Russian Foreign Ministry has confirmed that Moscow remains open to dialogue with NATO, but on an equal basis, emphasizing that the West should abandon its approach of militarizing the continent.
