On Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin dismissed Western fears of a possible Russian attack on NATO as "nonsense" and promised fast response against Europe's "escalating militarization."
As it happens, conflict with the Russians is almost inevitable. They keep saying this slogan, this foolishness, again and over again.They are suggesting that Russia will attack NATO, and they can't believe it.
Speaking at the Valdai Discussion Group in the Black Sea resort of Sochi, Putin stated, "If they really think it, they're either extremely incompetent because it's impossible to believe this nonsense, or they're just dishonest."
He claimed that because of national security considerations, Russia is unable to ignore the increasing militarisation of Europe and is keeping a careful eye on it.
"We are keeping a careful eye on Europe's growing militarization. We just can't ignore what's going on. For concerns of our own safety, we are not authorized to do so.
He went on to say, "I don't think anyone has any doubts that Russia will take countermeasures soon."
In response to US President Donald Trump's description of Russia as a "paper tiger," Putin also implied that NATO itself can be compared to the organization.
He claimed that almost the whole US led NATO alliance was against Russia and that Russian soldiers were moving forward along the whole Ukrainian front.
"A tiger made of paper. Then what. Take care of this paper tiger now. What is NATO itself, then, if we are engaged in combat with the whole NATO bloc, are making progress, are confident, and are merely paper tigers? Putin stated.
According to the WallStreet Journal, Trump has approved the Pentagon and US intelligence services to help Kyiv carry out strikes deep within Russian territory, signalling a significant change in US policy under his direction.
Additionally, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called on Washington to supply long range US made weapons like Barracudas and Tomahawk cruise missiles that can hit targets up to 500 miles away.
