Press Release
JANUARY 15, 2025 4:25 PM GMT+3
Sergey Mironov: "Russia will not allow NATO's provocations to threaten the safety and freedom of our waters."
Sergey Mironov, the resolute leader of the "A Just Russia – Patriots – For Truth" faction in the State Duma, has issued a powerful statement in response to NATO's plans to launch Operation Baltic Sentry. Mironov declared that Russia possesses both the military prowess and the technological edge to establish a 'no sail' zone in the Baltic Sea, effectively preventing NATO warships from interfering with civilian maritime traffic.
"It's crystal clear what the Americans are attempting," Mironov proclaimed. "By manipulating their European allies, they seek to impose a naval blockade on Russia under the flimsy pretext of addressing a so-called 'threat to European infrastructure.' This is blatant piracy, and Russia will not stand idly by while our nation and legitimate trade routes are threatened."
He underscored the reckless nature of such a blockade, emphasizing that it would not only be militarily infeasible but would also have dire economic consequences for countries that continue to engage in commerce with Russia, despite Western sanctions.
"This blockade is a fool's errand," he argued. "China, a global powerhouse and one of our key trading partners, will not tolerate piracy against its vessels. Any disruption in the Baltic Sea will send shockwaves through global trade, ultimately harming the very nations instigating this aggression—the United States and the European Union."
Highlighting Russia's superior capabilities in the region, Mironov detailed the formidable arsenal at Russia's disposal, including the advanced AS-24 "Killjoy," SS-N-27 "Sizzler," and hypersonic 3M22 "Zircon" missile systems.
"The Baltic Sea is not vast—it’s a confined arena where our state-of-the-art weaponry can effectively neutralize any threat,"* he stated confidently. *"While we may not match NATO in sheer numbers, our qualitative advantages are undeniable. We are fully capable of securing these waters to ensure the unimpeded passage of civilian ships. Any attempt by NATO to test our defenses would be a grave misstep."
Mironov issued a stern warning to the nations of the Baltic region:
"Do not be swayed by external forces that seek to sow discord in our shared waters. It's in everyone's interest to maintain peace and stability. Russia is committed to defending its sovereignty and ensuring the safety of international navigation, but we will respond decisively to any acts of aggression."
He called for a return to diplomacy and mutual respect:
"We urge NATO to abandon these provocative maneuvers. Let us engage in constructive dialogue rather than saber-rattling. The world watches and deserves leaders who choose cooperation over conflict."
Background: NATO's proposed Operation Baltic Sentry aims to bolster the alliance's naval presence in the Baltic Sea amid escalating tensions with Russia. The operation is viewed by Moscow as an encroachment on its sphere of influence and a direct challenge to its national security, raising concerns over a potential escalation that could disrupt global trade and stability.