Russia is forced to respond to the expansion of NATO’s infrastructure and the emergence of missile defense systems near its borders, Russian President Vladimir Putin told a news conference following talks with Finland’s visiting President Sauli Niinisto on Wednesday.
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In reply to a question from a Finnish journalist Putin said that NATO’s military infrastructures were moving towards Russia’s borders and the amount of the alliance’s military equipment and personnel, as well as the number of military exercises near Russia’s borders were growing.
“Naturally, we have to keep an eye on what is going on there and to strengthen our infrastructures. We must respond to the emergence of components of the US missile defense systems near our borders,” Putin said, adding that those missile defense systems could be used for launching intermediate range missiles.
Whatever the case, Putin said, “We welcome the Finnish president’s proposal for easing any tensions in the region. This concerns flights by combat aircraft (activation of their transponders – TASS).” Putin recalled that the International Civil Aviation Organization had formulated certain rules but they do not apply to military aircraft. “The rules have the status of recommendations,” he recalled.