Russia's Lavrov: NATO's Arctic moves pose 'direct threat' to Russia

Russia's Lavrov: NATO's Arctic moves pose 'direct threat' to Russia
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov attends a press conference in Moscow, Russia, 25 August 2026. Reuters
Reuters

Russia views NATO’s growing military activity in the Arctic as a direct threat to its national security, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said.

 

⦿ 03:00 GMT | UPDATE

Russia warns NATO’s Arctic activity threatens security

Reuters

NATO launched its Arctic Sentry mission in February to strengthen the alliance’s presence in the far north.

Lavrov described NATO military exercises in the region as “aggressive” and warned that they increase the risk of incidents leading to armed confrontation.

He said such a confrontation could have “potentially catastrophic consequences.”

Russia maintains the largest military presence and most extensive military infrastructure in the Arctic, including nuclear-armed submarines.

Moscow also sees the Arctic as strategically important for developing shipping routes connecting Russia with Asian markets.

Norway recently expanded a military brigade based in the Arctic as NATO members strengthen their defence presence following Russia’s war in Ukraine.

Moscow has repeatedly rejected claims that Russia poses a military threat to NATO.

⦿ 02:30 GMT | UPDATE

Welcome to our live coverage

 

Hello and welcome.

Follow our live blog for the latest developments in Russia-Ukraine war.

Tags