Russia is taking all necessary measures to maintain its defense capability in response to the intensification of Finnish exercises near the Russian borders. This was reported by Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko in an interview with TASS. According to him, such actions by Finland, which are being carried out in the context of the country's participation in NATO, are an element of a hybrid war waged by the North Atlantic Alliance against Russia.

Grushko stressed that the Russian side closely monitors NATO activity near its borders, especially against the backdrop of growing military activity in northwestern Europe. Finland's inclusion in the alliance has only increased tension in the region. Moscow, according to the diplomat, regards these exercises as provocative steps aimed at destabilizing the situation near Russia's borders and demonstrating force.