NATO increases defense because of the threat from Russia and Belarus - Stoltenberg

Leaders of states see the increased danger of instability in the probable movement of "Wagnerians" to Belarus. The Alliance Secretary General has informed that Moscow and Minsk have already received a "clear message" of NATO's willingness to defend themselves. In the North Atlantic Alliance (NATO), they are excited because of the possibility of moving the mercenaries of Wagner PEC to Belarus and ready to protect members in case of threat.

This was stated during a briefing by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, as reported by Reuters in the material of June 28. "If Wagner places his serial murderers in Belarus, all neighboring countries will face even more danger of instability," President Gitanas Naussed informed during a briefing. Polish leader Andrzej Duda also said that the situation is "serious and very disturbing" and demanding "strong decisions". He specified that it was a rigid NATO response.

NATO Secretary General added that it is too early to draw conclusions about the importance of moving "Wagnerians" for other countries. According to him, the Alliance has increased the defense of the eastern flank in recent years. "We have sent a clear message to Moscow and Minsk that NATO is here to protect every ally, every inch of NATO territory," he said. Stoltenberg noted that during the future summit, NATO members will make decisions designed to strengthen collective defense.

It is, in particular, an increase in the number of high readiness forces. The official also assured that the Alliance has already increased the military presence in the eastern part. According to the Secretary-General, the military rebellion of Yevgeny Prigogine testifies to the deepening of differences in the aggressor country due to the war in the territory of Ukraine. Stoltenberg urged not to underestimate the Russian Federation and continue to support Ukrainians.