Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko said in an interview published in the Izvestia newspaper that Russia would respond to the possibility of the US deploying long-range missiles in Germany.
Deputy Minister Grushko emphasized that if the US chooses the path of strengthening military capabilities against Russia, Moscow will also build corresponding, even more effective counterweight capabilities.
So, if they decide to follow the path of strengthening military potential against Russia, they should understand that we will create equivalent, or even more effective counterweight capabilities. Then, instead of a reasonable state of military restraint, taking into account the interests and national security of all parties, there will be a balance of threats and counter-menaces," he said.
According to the Russian Deputy Foreign Minister, Russia is ready to discuss with the US the issue of missile deployment in Germany. He affirmed that Russia has never avoided such exchanges.
Mr. Grushko reiterated that after the US withdrew from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, Russia unilaterally declared a moratorium on the deployment of similar missile systems.
We say we will not deploy such systems until US systems are deployed to Europe. That's all," he said.
The Russian diplomat questioned whether politicians really care about their national security interests, they could choose a similar approach. However, according to him, tough views are currently prevailing.
Mr. Grushko also said that Europe is seeking to build a security structure "opposed to Russia".
The US side has not yet commented on this statement.
