Russia has strongly criticized NATO’s recent decision to increase defense spending to 5 % of GDP by 2035, calling it a provocative escalation that puts the alliance on a self‑destructive path. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov described the move as “largely a wasted effort” aimed at portraying Russia as a looming menace to justify increased military outlays.
Peskov accused NATO of deliberately stoking fear by demonizing Russia, calling the alliance a “fiend of hell.” While NATO maintains its actions are based on the observable threat posed by Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, Moscow dismissed those claims, insisting the alliance is pursuing militarization for its own sake.
The issue takes center stage as NATO members convene to approve a sweeping $1.4 trillion defense boost, earmarked to strengthen ground‑based air defense and production capacity — a response directly linked to Russian drone, cruise missile, and ballistic threats in Ukraine.
Putin’s call for restraint—including requests for written assurances halting NATO expansion eastward—has fallen on deaf ears, as allies forge ahead, pledging unity and resolve. Still, analysts warn that such defense ramp‑ups risk provoking Russia further and inflaming an arms race in Europe.
This debate highlights a growing rift: NATO insists it is reacting to tangible threats, while Russia accuses the alliance of manufacturing threats to justify self‑enrichment. Whether this defense surge will restore security or exacerbate tension depends on whether Western leaders can balance deterrence with diplomacy in this high‑stakes geopolitical game.
