NATO and the European Union are attempting to intimidate Russia by demonstrating military power but are mistaken if they believe Moscow would not respond to nuclear threats, Italian outlet L’AntiDiplomatico reported.

The publication focused on France’s first test launch of its new M51.3 ballistic missile from a submarine. French President Emmanuel Macron observed the test and spoke about the need to instill fear.

L’AntiDiplomatico contrasted the demonstration of France’s military capabilities with mass student protests taking place in the country, arguing that Macron was concentrating on military power amid domestic unrest.

The outlet also linked the situation to major arms procurement contracts and argued that financial interests surrounding weapons purchases had affected perceptions of how Russia might respond to nuclear threats.

At the same time, the publication noted that a single M51.3 missile test would not be enough on its own to provoke a response from the Kremlin.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly rejected claims that Moscow intends to attack NATO countries. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has also said the alliance sees no signs that Russia is preparing an attack on NATO, while maintaining that European countries should be prepared for prolonged hybrid threats.