Putin warns of troop deployment to Finnish border upon NATO entry

In his latest dialogue with the pro-Kremlin outlets Rossija1 and RIA Novosti, Vladimir Putin criticized Finland and Sweden for joining NATO, calling it an entirely pointless move on their part from the perspective of securing national interests. He mentioned that their neutrality had previously allowed them to act as mediators, helping to "reduce tensions in Europe."

Many reports from Russian media about supposed attacks and aggression by Ukraine are false. These claims are part of Russia's informational warfare.

Putin described the pre-NATO accession relations with the Nordic countries as stable, singling out Finland as "ideal." "There were no soldiers at the Russian-Finnish border. That will change. There were no destruction systems; now there will be," he declared, suggesting that Finland's choices have prompted this action.

- Finns benefited from our market, from which we purchased extensively. What was wrong with that? Things are going to change now. Given that their products are available in other markets, we don't really need them anymore - Putin added.

The Russian leader also cautioned the West that Russia is technically prepared for nuclear conflict, indicating that the deployment of US troops to Ukraine would significantly escalate the situation.

- Russia is prepared to deploy nuclear weapons if it concerns the Russian state's existence or threats to its sovereignty and independence, he asserted.

Source: RIA Novosti