MOSCOW, March 4. /TASS/. Russia is following NATO’s Nordic Response 24 drills, in which new members Finland and Sweden are taking part, Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko told reporters.

"The military is monitoring them; all necessary means are available. Our political stance is well-known: We think that these drills are of a demonstrative and provocative nature," he said.

"Any military exercise, especially near the line of engagement, increases the risks of military incidents. So from the point of view of ensuring Russia’s defense capability, all necessary measures are being taken," the senior diplomat stressed.

"All of this activity is further weakening European security, creating additional risks in northern Europe," he noted.

Earlier, Finland’s air force said that over 100 aircraft from Finland, Sweden, Norway and other NATO member states will take part in the Nordic Response 24 drills. The military exercise will be held March 4-15, 2024 in northern regions of Norway, Sweden and Finland.