Russia has described the discovery of a US air defense base in northern Poland as a threat on global nuclear security. According to Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for the Russian Foreign Ministry, the Regzhikovo base, which is part of NATO's anti-missile shield, increases the overall level of nuclear danger and is included in a list of targets subject to destruction in case of necessity, reports BTA.
Poland rejected the Russian accusations. Polish Foreign Ministry spokesman Pawel Wronski said the base had no offensive role, but was intended for defense:
"Threats from Russia confirm the need to strengthen the air defense of Poland and NATO."
The base, opened last Wednesday near the Baltic coast, underscores NATO's efforts to strengthen its defense capabilities in the region. The dispute heightens tensions between Russia and Western countries, which continue to expand their security cooperation.