NATO doubled in Poland and Baltics

The Russian Ministry of Defense stated that the number of NATO troops in Poland and the Baltics has doubled since 2022 and now amounts to about 22,000 servicemen. According to representatives of the main directorate for international military cooperation of the Russian Federation, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia are being 'militarized' under the pretext of protection against Russian aggression. Up to 40 combat training exercises simulating a war scenario with Russia are held annually in these countries. As part of the 'Eastern Shield' program, Warsaw plans to create a system of field fortifications in regions bordering Russia and Belarus by 2028. Meanwhile, increased activity of NATO naval forces in the Baltic Sea is being observed.

Context

Raised concerns about increased NATO military activity are heightening tensions in the region.