Putin warns NATO presence in Pacific raises risk of conflict

Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that NATO is expanding its presence in the Pacific region, warning that this increases the likelihood of conflict there.

Putin, as quoted by Russia's Sputnik news agency, stated: "We see, unfortunately, that the risk of conflict is rising (in the Pacific Fleet area). NATO is making inroads here, new military and political blocs are forming, and new weapons systems are being deployed or planned for deployment, all of which pose threats to our country."

Regarding the necessity of Pacific Fleet exercises to strengthen Russia's military capabilities in the Asia-Pacific, the Russian president explained: "Such activities, which we are currently discussing, are essential to maintain the fleet's combat readiness and to protect our country's interests and security in the Asia-Pacific as a whole, and to enhance Russia's military capabilities in this region. All of this must be done, among other things, taking into account the experience gained from the special military operation."

He stressed that Russia has always followed this approach and now reaffirms its readiness to cooperate and to utilize the advantages of the Northern Sea Route, in accordance with the applicable international law of the sea.

Putin added: "Recently, there has been talk of the possibility of seizing our ships and selling off property taken from us. Naturally, this is nothing but piracy and robbery. If this begins to happen in practice, we will be forced to respond in kind. And not necessarily in the same waters where the attacks are planned, but wherever we ourselves deem it necessary and appropriate—including in the area of responsibility of the Pacific Fleet."