Russia Takes Proportional Measures Regarding NATO Expansion, Lavrov Says

Russia knows what measures to take and how to practically implement them to ensure security in light of Sweden and Finland's NATO membership aspirations. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov made this statement during a press conference following negotiations with Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad bin Hamoud Al Busaidi.

"We are taking proportional steps, and I dare assure you in advance," Lavrov responded to questions from media representatives.

The head of Russia's foreign policy agency emphasized that Moscow is astonished by how quickly Sweden and Finland have abandoned their neutral status and advantages in favor of joining the alliance, and it will draw appropriate conclusions.

It is worth mentioning that Sweden and Finland submitted their applications for NATO membership to NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg on May 18, 2022. Finland officially became a NATO member on April 4. The process for Sweden's membership has stalled. The reason is Turkey's refusal to approve the application due to the ongoing protests against the burning of the Koran and the rejection of extraditing individuals linked to the PKK, which Turkey designates as a terrorist organization.