Overview

• Lavrov argued NATO’s expansion to Russia’s borders fuels tensions and asserted Moscow would respond firmly to any invasion.
• He warned that anyone attempting to shoot down flying objects in Russian airspace would regret it.
• He said Moscow does not seek a clash with Europe but insisted Russia will act decisively against perceived aggression.
• The statements came as European allies strengthen air policing after reports of Russian aircraft violating airspace this month.
• He voiced limited expectation that U.S.–Russia dialogue will continue after the Alaska summit and restated that halting NATO expansion and protecting Russian speakers are prerequisites for peace talks.