"This move, part of the ongoing NATO measures to strengthen its eastern flank, will fuel the artificially created climate of confrontation with Russia. It runs counter to real European and regional security interests, which can only be ensured on an equal and collective basis," Grushko was quoted as saying on the Russian NATO mission's Twitter page.
According to the Russian envoy, NATO is being overruled by forces seeking to "contain" Russia. "This is a dead end, leading to increased tensions in a Cold War-era scenario."
Relations between Russia and NATO have deteriorated amid the Ukrainian crisis. Since 2014, the alliance has been strengthening its military presence in Eastern European countries that border Russia, accusing Moscow of meddling in Kiev's internal affairs.
Russia has repeatedly denied the accusations and has expressed concern over the NATO reinforcement along the country's western border, saying the move could lead to destabilization in the region.
