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Star News INDONESIA, Thursday, (05 June 2025). JAKARTA - In early May 2025, NATO launched a large-scale military exercise in the Baltic Sea as part of its annual BALTOPS drills. The exercise involved thousands of personnel from NATO member countries and aimed to enhance readiness and interoperability among allied forces.
However, Russia views the exercise as preparation for direct confrontation. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko stated that the structure and objectives of the drills indicate readiness to face a peer adversary—an implicit reference to Russia.
This year's BALTOPS exercises include a range of operations such as mine-clearing, submarine detection, and amphibious landings in strategic areas. These activities are taking place amid rising tensions between NATO and Russia, particularly following incidents involving underwater infrastructure in the region.
The increase in military activity in the area highlights an escalation of tensions that warrants close attention from the international community. While NATO emphasizes that the exercises are intended to boost preparedness and cooperation among its members, Russia sees them as provocative actions that could further strain bilateral relations.
The situation underscores the need for dialogue and transparency to prevent further escalation. The international community is urged to play a role in easing tensions and promoting diplomatic solutions to existing differences.
Editor : Wiwid/Deni Suprapto
