The North Atlantic Alliance has initiated a series of military exercises near Russia's borders, which are set to continue until late autumn.

These drills, involving several NATO member states, are seen as part of the alliance’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its defense posture in Eastern Europe and the surrounding regions.

The largest of these exercises, Steadfast Foxtrot '24, began in Germany on September 9 and will run until September 20. This exercise is being led by U.S. Army General Christopher Cavoli, who oversees NATO's military operations in Europe.

Additionally, from September 30 to October 11, Ramstein Flag 24, a major air force exercise, will take place in Greece under the command of NATO’s Joint Air Command (AIRCOM).

Meanwhile, Slovakia is hosting the Toxic Valley chemical and biological warfare exercises, which commenced on September 8. Hungary has been conducting the Brave Warrior military drills since late August.

In the coming months, other notable exercises will include Hammer 2024 in Finland from October 30 to November 12, as well as the Mavi Balina and Poseidon '24 naval exercises in Türkiye and Bulgaria, respectively. NATO exercises are also planned in Spain, Italy, and Latvia during this period.

On September 7, German Eurofighter jets conducted maneuvers near the Finnish village of Hosio, approximately 180 kilometers from the Russian border. This proximity has drawn attention from Moscow, as Russian officials continue to monitor NATO’s activities closely.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova described NATO’s exercises in Finland as part of a broader hybrid war against Russia. She emphasized that Moscow is carefully assessing the potential risks posed by these drills.

The exercises follow accusations earlier this year by Russia, claiming that the U.S. has been spreading misinformation about Russia's alleged plans to provoke a conflict with NATO. NATO, however, asserts that its exercises are purely defensive and are meant to enhance collective security in the region. (ILKHA)