Russian Embassy says NATO nuclear drill will not ease European tensions

Russia’s Embassy in Belgium said the upcoming NATO exercise would not reduce tensions. The alliance says Steadfast Noon begins in Italy on October 13 and will involve 17 nations.

The embassy said the drills are taking place as NATO describes Russia as the main threat to security. It called the exercise part of the alliance’s nuclear policy, which Moscow opposes.

The mission also noted NATO officials’ statements that the exercise is routine and poses no threat to Russia. NATO and the Associated Press describe Steadfast Noon as the alliance’s annual nuclear deterrence exercise. This year it is being held in Italy with 17 nations participating. NATO says no live nuclear weapons will be used and the exercise is not directed against any country.

Russia’s Foreign Ministry has said Moscow remains open to dialogue with NATO on an equal footing, while calling on Western countries to abandon what it describes as the militarization of Europe. The embassy cited Russian concerns about NATO activity near the country’s western borders.