(MENAFN) Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated on Tuesday that the European Union is increasingly acting as an extension of NATO. Speaking at an international forum in Moscow, Lavrov noted that the EU was originally created as an economic organization aimed at improving the quality of life for its citizens. However, he argued, the bloc has undergone a “radical transformation” and now functions as an “aggressive military-political alliance,” essentially serving as a subordinate to NATO.

Lavrov highlighted an agreement between the EU and NATO requiring EU countries — even those not formally part of NATO — to permit the transit of NATO troops and equipment through their territories toward the eastern front when necessary. He claimed these arrangements demonstrate that EU members are now directly involved in preparations for conflict with Russia.

His comments followed revelations from former US President Donald Trump, who shared messages from NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. In the messages, Rutte reportedly praised US military actions against Iran, mirrored Trump’s communication style, and boasted about pushing EU nations to more than double their defense spending, citing the perceived Russian threat.

Recently, EU countries also approved a €150 billion ($170 billion) debt package aimed at boosting arms production and military procurement.

Moscow continues to assert that it poses no threat to any EU state, dismissing Western claims as baseless scaremongering designed to justify military buildups. Russian officials have also criticized the EU’s debt plan, labeling it part of the bloc’s ongoing militarization and hostile policies, warning that such actions risk fueling conflict in Europe.

On Monday, President Vladimir Putin echoed these sentiments, telling Russian military academy graduates that the West fabricates threats of a Russian attack to perpetuate an arms race and justify further militarization.

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