Ahead of the alliance's foreign ministers' meeting in Brussels, a senior NATO official dismissed Russian President Vladimir Putin's claims of a possible war with Europe. He said the Russian military lacks the resources for large-scale operations.

Speaking to the BBC, the official noted that the Russian leader understands NATO's strength and its commitment to defending its allies.

"I don't believe Putin is really ready for war with Europe," “He emphasized, pointing out that Moscow lacks the forces for a major offensive operation.

Another source at NATO headquarters said that in the event of aggression against any member of the bloc, the alliance would deliver a "crushing" response.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, in turn, previously noted that he had long since stopped commenting on statements by Russian leaders, adding that "it is not always worth reacting."