DISINFO: NATO is provoking Russia for years and spreading rumours of Russian invasion
SUMMARY
Government representatives of the NATO states have been inciting against Russia for years and spreading rumours of an invasion, although Russia is on the defensive and has been trying to be a peaceful neighbour for decades. In vain, the pressure from the USA is overwhelming.
RESPONSE
This is a recurring pro-Kremlin disinformation narrative, claiming that NATO is a hostile military alliance that aims to inflict harm on Russia.
NATO is a defensive alliance, whose primary aims are to maintain peace and safeguard the independence, security and territorial integrity of its members. Moreover, NATO poses no threat to Russia. During the Warsaw summit in July 2016, NATO has made it clear that "The Alliance does not seek confrontation and poses no threat to Russia". This was also reaffirmed in the Brussels Summit Communiqué of 14 June 2021.
However, in March 2014, in response to Russia's aggressive actions against Ukraine, NATO suspended practical cooperation with Russia. The Alliance does not seek confrontation, but also cannot ignore Russia breaking international rules, undermining geopolitical stability and security.
This article appeared amid international concerns about Russia’s military buildup near Ukraine, which led to fears of an eventual invasion. By accusing NATO of “provocation”, this story seems to be an attempt to divert attention away from Russia’s responsibility in increasing tensions on the border, as part of a wider disinformation campaign.
Read more disinformation narratives claiming that NATO is a hostile bloc to Russia.