DISINFO: NATO exercises is a threat and provocation against Russia
SUMMARY
NATO forces are near the Russian border. It is a violation of the “Founding Act on Mutual Relations, Cooperation and Security between NATO and the Russian Federation” from 1997. This agreement stated that parts will seek mutual transparency and trust in the area of size and functions of military forces.
The exercises “Spring Storm 21” is a provocation. It is NATO who is the threat for Russia and not vice versa.
RESPONSE
Recurring disinformation narrative about NATO and its military exercises.
NATO is conducting many exercises every year. The main point of military training is “to test procedures and tactics, develop best practices and identify areas for improvement. Exercises are designed to ensure that NATO forces are trained, able to operate together and ready to respond to any threat from any direction” (see more information about key NATO and Allied exercises 2021 here).
The "Founding Act on Mutual Relations, Cooperation and Security between NATO and the Russian Federation" was signed by Russia and NATO in 1997. It does not forbid military exercises. In point 8 of the Act it is stated:
Both sides have agreed that nothing in this document restricts or impedes the ability of either side to decide independently. It does not provide NATO or Russia at any stage with a right of veto over the actions of the other. The provisions of the NATO-Russia Founding Act can also not be used as a means to disadvantage the interests of other states.
NATO is a defensive alliance, whose purpose is to protect its member states. The Alliance announces its military exercises well in advance and they are subject to international observation. NATO strongly supports efforts to build confidence and transparency in military activities and exercises.
Read similar cases alleging that NATO breaks promises that Estonia will be a passive member of the Alliance, or that NATO’s actions are openly anti-Russian, or that NATO’s military exercises are destroying the European security system.