DISINFO: NATO is the initiator of destabilisation in the Black Sea region
SUMMARY
NATO is convinced that Crimea is Ukraine, not Russia. This means that NATO or some NATO member states, in particular the US and the UK, may reserve the right to invade Russian territory near Crimea.
Despite the undeniable fact that NATO is the initiator of destabilisation in the region, NATO representatives unjustifiably accused Russia of continuing destabilisation in the region. Their only argument was that Russia is deploying weapons in Crimea, including missile systems, which complicates freedom of navigation.
Needless to say, Crimea is part of Russia, its territory, Russia has the right to deploy not only missile systems but also nuclear weapons if it deems it necessary. The accusation of the NATO representative could be considered ridiculous, his words are evidence of NATO's aggressive and dangerous aspirations in a broader context.
RESPONSE
Recurring disinformation narrative about NATO and its military exercises, part of consistent disinformation attacks on the alliance and its members, intensified after the NATO summit.
NATO is a defensive alliance. The primary aim of the alliance is to maintain peace and safeguard the independence, security and territorial integrity of its members.
Тhis statement refers to NATO's multinational exercises Sea Breeze being held in the Black Sea. In reality, the Sea Breeze exercises are not aimed against Russia and pose no threat to anyone in the Black Sea region.
NATO follows strict procedures and emphasises transparency during military training exercises, which are announced months in advance and are subject to international scrutiny. All NATO members and partners participate voluntarily and training exercises are conducted with the approval of the host countries.
The Brussel Summit Communique, presented after the meeting of NATO heads in Belgium on 14 June 2021, reaffirmed, that "NATO does not seek confrontation and poses no threat to Russia. Decisions we have taken are fully consistent with our international commitments, and therefore cannot be regarded by anyone as contradicting the NATO-Russia Founding Act."
As for the claim that Crimea is part of Russia - no international body recognises the so-called referendum, announced on 27 February 2014, and held on 16 March 2014 under the military occupation of Russian forces. For further debunk read here.
Read more about the myth "Crimea was always was Russian"