Russian President Vladimir Putin signed off on a new military doctrine Friday that declares NATO as the top threat to the Eastern European country.
In particular, the doctrine sees the U.S.-backed organization’s military buildup near the Russian border as a major security problem, and calls for the use of “precision convention weapons” as a “strategic deterrent” against this perceived threat, the Associated Press reports.
NATO refuted these charges and hit back with an accusation that Russia is infringing upon the security of the entire European continent.
“Any steps taken by NATO to ensure the security of its members are clearly defensive in nature, proportionate and in compliance with international law,” a NATO spokeswoman told the AP. “In fact, it is Russia’s actions, including currently in Ukraine, which are breaking international law and undermining European security.”
The crisis in Ukraine is seen as the impetus for the rising tensions between Russia and the West, with each side accusing the other of violating international laws and treaties.
Russia’s new military doctrine also considers the use of nuclear weapons in case of a situation that “threatens the very existence” of the nation.