Russia has warned NATO that it would retaliate if the alliance moves ahead with plans to deploy intermediate-range missiles in Europe. Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said the proposed deployment would be viewed in Moscow as a direct threat to Russian security.

The warning comes amid rising tensions between Russia and Western governments over military buildup, arms control, and the war in Ukraine. NATO officials have not publicly detailed a final deployment decision, but the debate has already intensified concerns about a new missile standoff on the continent.

Moscow has long argued that Western military infrastructure near its borders increases the risk of escalation. NATO members, meanwhile, say their defense posture is a response to Russian aggression and a means of deterring further attacks.

The latest exchange underscores how fragile the security environment in Europe remains, with both sides signaling that any move on missile deployments could deepen the confrontation and narrow the space for diplomacy.