Kremlin warns of national security threat posed by US missile deployment near its borders
- Russia expresses concerns over planned US deployment of long-range missiles to Germany.
- Hungarian minister emphasizes the importance of maintaining a relationship with Moscow for Europe's security.
- Tensions rise as Russia asserts deterrence against NATO's actions near its borders.
In response to NATO's expansion in Europe, Russia has vowed to take countermeasures to protect its national security. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov expressed concerns over NATO's decisions to establish logistics hubs in Black Sea cities and open additional facilities in Europe, viewing them as a serious threat. The US and Germany announced plans for episodic deployments of long-range missiles in Germany from 2026, while NATO confirmed the readiness of a new US air defense base in northern Poland. President Vladimir Putin previously mentioned resuming production of intermediate-range nuclear-capable missiles in response to similar actions by the US in Europe and Asia. During the NATO summit, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan emphasized the importance of avoiding direct confrontation between Russia and NATO. Meanwhile, Russia's Ministry of Defence reported the liberation of the village of Voskhod near Donetsk city, amid ongoing conflict in the region. Ukraine is seeking more weapons supplies to bolster its defense against Russian pressure, with fierce fighting occurring across the front line. Hungary's minister for EU affairs, János Bóka, stressed the need for the European Union to engage with Russia in order to establish a sustainable security architecture. Bóka highlighted the importance of supporting Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, following discussions with both Russian President Putin and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy. European Council President Charles Michel criticized the EU rotating presidency's engagement with Russia, emphasizing the EU's stance on the conflict in Ukraine. Prime Minister Orbán's peace mission to Ukraine aimed to explore possibilities for a ceasefire and assess the EU's role in resolving the conflict. Orbán briefed EU leaders on the outcomes of his trip, emphasizing the importance of cooperation and dialogue. Despite concerns over political motives, Bóka dismissed suggestions of exclusion, stating that Orbán is prepared to address the European Parliament during Hungary's presidency under the slogan "Make Europe Great Again".