On June 18 (Moscow time), according to TASS news agency, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that Moscow would react toughly if any member country of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) took military action against areas of Russian territory.
Speaking at a press conference, Ms. Zakharova emphasized that Russia has repeatedly affirmed its position regarding the risks of escalating conflict between Moscow and NATO.
In the event of a provocative action from any NATO member state against any area of Russia, our response will be decisive and very strong towards the initiators," Zakharova said.
According to Ms. Zakharova, European countries need to carefully consider the possible consequences of statements or actions that increase tensions in the region.
Ms. Zakharova affirmed that Western military capabilities or defense systems will not be able to prevent the consequences if a direct confrontation between Russia and NATO occurs.
Those who make such statements need to understand what they are pushing Europe to," she added.
The statement of the Russian Foreign Ministry was made in the context of continued tensions between Moscow and NATO related to the conflict in Ukraine, as well as the alliance's increased military presence in the eastern flank of Europe.
In the past time, Russia has repeatedly criticized NATO's expansion of military support for Kiev, and warned of the risk of escalation if the conflict goes beyond the current scope.
Meanwhile, NATO affirmed that the alliance's measures are defensive and aimed at ensuring security for member countries.
Observers believe that the latest statements from Moscow show that Russia continues to maintain a tough stance against any scenario that could lead to direct confrontation with NATO, in the context that the parties have not yet found a solution to de-escalate tensions that have lasted for more than 4 years.
