Russia is preparing false "arguments" explanations for potential aggression against NATO countries.
Russia's decision to form a Western Military District on the border with Finland most likely indicates preparation for a potential future large-scale war against NATO.
This is stated in a new report from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).
Analysts recalled the merciless statement of Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu that the Russian military form the Leningrad Military District (LVO) and the Moscow Military District (MOVO) in connection with Finland’s accession to NATO and the future accession of Sweden.
Shoigu also announced that in 2024 Russia will give priority to the implementation of operational and combat training measures to combat the alleged “threats of further NATO expansion to the east.”
“Shoigu's attempt to present the creation of the LGS and SMR as a response to the alleged “NATO expansion” goes back to the current Russian information operation aimed at shifting responsibility for the war in Ukraine from Russia to the West, presenting Russia's actions as reactive,” — analysts say.
ISW emphasized that Finland and Sweden applied to join NATO only shortly after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, supposedly “fearing further Russian aggression on their borders.”
“Russia's decision to reform the Western Military District is part of a long-term plan, an urgent restructuring and expansion effort aimed at preparing Russia for a potential coming large-scale conventional war against NATO while balancing Russian operational requirements in Ukraine,” count in ISW.
Recall that Putin threatened Finland because of its entry into NATO.
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