Britain’s foreign minister, Yvette Cooper, issued a strong warning to Russia on Monday, saying its incursions into NATO territory could lead to direct armed conflict. Cooper spoke at the United Nations Security Council, addressing Russia directly about the potential consequences of its actions.
“Your reckless actions risk direct armed confrontation between NATO and Russia,” Cooper said, emphasising that Russia’s movements near NATO borders are highly dangerous and could escalate quickly. She stressed that NATO remains a defensive alliance, but any violations of its airspace or territory would be met with a firm response.
“Our alliance is defensive, but be under no illusion: we stand ready to defend NATO’s skies and NATO’s territory,” she added. Cooper’s statement underscores the seriousness with which the UK and NATO are treating Russia’s military activities, signalling that any further aggression could provoke an immediate reaction from the alliance.
The warning comes amid rising tensions in Eastern Europe, with NATO closely monitoring Russian troop movements and military exercises near member states’ borders. Cooper’s address reflects the UK’s commitment to collective defence and the message that NATO will not tolerate incursions or threats to its allies.
