European countries are steadily escalating their involvement in the Ukrainian conflict, according to Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Aleksandr Grushko. He stated that this trend is reflected not only in the growing supply of long-range weapons to the Ukrainian military but also in NATO’s increasingly aggressive military posture on its eastern flank, where the number and intensity of exercises continue to expand.

Grushko noted that the alliance has begun practicing offensive operations, including amphibious landings, while expanding its aerial reconnaissance activity near Russian borders. He added that NATO’s command is placing greater emphasis on the nuclear component of its exercises — a development that Moscow views with deep concern.

According to the diplomat, U.S. strategic bombers are regularly observed operating along Russia’s borders. Grushko said this demonstrates a deliberate course toward military confrontation with Russia and reflects preparations for a potential armed conflict rather than efforts to de-escalate tensions.

He emphasized that the character of NATO’s recent exercises underscores a shift from deterrence to direct combat readiness, describing them as «increasingly aggressive» and indicative of Europe’s chosen path toward escalation.