Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova: “We regard Mr Cavo Dragone’s remarks about the possibility of preemptive strikes against Russia as an extremely irresponsible step”

Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova
Photo: MFA

Statement by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova regarding statements by the Chair of the NATO Military Committee:

“We have taken note of the recent interview NATO Military Committee Chair Giuseppe Cavo Dragone gave to the Financial Times. Commenting on the bloc’s reaction to Russia’s “hybrid attacks,” he asserted that “preemptive strikes could be considered defensive actions.” According to him, the North Atlantic Alliance should act “more aggressively.”

We regard Mr Cavo Dragone’s remarks about the possibility of preemptive strikes against Russia as an extremely irresponsible step, demonstrating the alliance’s willingness to further escalate the situation. These statements should be viewed as a deliberate attempt to undermine ongoing efforts aimed at resolving the Ukrainian crisis. Those who allow themselves such rhetoric must clearly understand the risks and potential consequences that would arise, including for the alliance’s own member states.

NATO has long ceased to conceal its true goals and intentions. Nevertheless, the bloc’s leadership continues to level baseless accusations against Russia, alleging “belligerent nuclear rhetoric,” intimidation, and so-called hybrid attacks, without presenting a single piece of evidence of our involvement.

Against the backdrop of NATO’s intensifying anti-Russia hysteria and persistent fear-mongering about an “imminent attack” by Russia on its member states, such statements do not simply fuel tensions but seriously aggravate the existing confrontation.

Brussels likes to repeat the mantra of the alliance’s “purely defensive” nature. Yet Mr Cavo Dragone’s own words about the admissibility of preemptive strikes effectively unravel this myth.”

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