Kremlin warns of retaliation if NATO deploys nuclear forces near Russia’s borders

“It is necessary to respond … by taking appropriate precautions to ensure deterrence,” Interfax agency quoted Deputy Foreign Minister Grushko as saying on May 14.

He also reiterated the Kremlin’s earlier statement that Moscow’s response to NATO’s expansion would depend on the alliance’s degree to which it moves military assets towards Russia as well as its facilities. infrastructure deployed in the country.

According to Grushko, Moscow does not intend to be hostile towards Finland and Sweden and does not see a “real” reason for the two countries to join the NATO alliance.

Finland’s plan to join NATO, announced on Thursday, has sparked speculation that Sweden will do the same. This will lead to the expansion of NATO – something Russian President Vladimir Putin wants to prevent.

Despite warnings from Russia, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has repeatedly affirmed that the alliance will “welcome” Sweden and Finland with open arms.

When a country applies to join NATO, it needs to get approval from the 30 existing members to renew the invitation, then hold membership negotiations. The decision to admit a new member needs to be ratified by all NATO members. However, one NATO member country has expressed strong opposition to Finland and Sweden joining NATO, that is Turkey.

Turkey – which has good relations with Russia – has repeatedly criticized the Nordic countries, especially Sweden, for accepting Kurdish groups considered by Ankara to be extremist organizations and supporters of Islam. Fethullah Gulen – who is wanted.