The alliance said Thursday that its Steadfast Noon exercise will take place from October 13 to 23, with the participation of 17 countries.
In a statement, it said, "This exercise is a routine, long-planned training activity and is part of the Alliance's efforts to maintain readiness and test actions that contribute to deterrence and defense capabilities."
It added, "No live weapons will be used in Steadfast Noon, and the exercise is not related to current world events and is not directed against any country."
While NATO Secretary General Mark Zuckerberg emphasized that the alliance is a "defensive alliance," he noted that this exercise "helps us ensure we have a secure, reliable, effective, and trustworthy capability to maintain peace, prevent coercion, and deter aggression. It also sends a clear message of unity and resolve."
Russia has accused NATO of carrying out "provocative" actions around its exclave of Kaliningrad, which is not connected to the rest of Russia, and has warned that it is prepared to use its "entire arsenal" to respond to any attack.
The alliance condemned these statements, but its officials say it has not detected any significant changes in Russia's nuclear posture.
0 Comments