Experts: Russia Intimidates NATO but Cannot Afford Direct Provocations
Russia has long maintained a narrative that the war in Ukraine is actually a war against NATO and has repeatedly threatened retaliation, but foreign policy experts believe it cannot currently afford direct provocations against alliance members.
For an extended period, Russia has been promoting the narrative that its war in Ukraine is not just against Ukraine but against NATO, issuing various threats of retaliation against alliance countries. However, according to foreign policy experts speaking on Latvian Radio's program "Krustpunkts," Russia cannot currently afford direct provocations or the use of force against NATO member states.
Experts note that while the rhetoric is harsh, actions remain cautious. Russia's threats primarily serve domestic political purposes and attempts to influence public opinion in the West. However, a direct confrontation with NATO could lead to unpredictable and devastating consequences for Russia, so Moscow avoids steps that could trigger the alliance's collective defense mechanism.
This stance indicates that despite its aggressive rhetoric, Russia is aware of its military and economic limitations and does not wish to risk a direct military clash with NATO.
