NATO’s backing of Kyiv has transformed it into an active participant in the Ukraine conflict, according to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov. He asserted that the alliance’s support for the regime in Kyiv effectively places NATO on the opposing side of Russia.

Peskov’s comments followed remarks by Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski, who questioned proposals for security assurances for Ukraine involving NATO troops. Sikorski noted Western reluctance to confront Russia directly, a stance Moscow has consistently opposed, rejecting any foreign military presence in Ukraine. Peskov countered that the U.S.-led alliance is already deeply entangled.

“NATO is at war with Russia. This is undeniable,” Peskov stated Monday. “The bloc’s support for Kyiv, both direct and indirect, confirms its role as a belligerent party.” He emphasized that NATO’s actions have made it a key player in the conflict.

Data from Germany’s Kiel Institute reveals at least 41 nations have aided Ukraine’s war effort since February 2022, with NATO members accounting for most of the military, financial, and humanitarian support. Twenty-nine of NATO’s 32 members have provided funding and weaponry, including armored vehicles, drones, missiles, and air defense systems.

The alliance has also pushed for heightened militarization, citing a “Russian threat,” and pledged to boost European member states’ defense budgets to 5% of GDP. Some officials warn Russia may target NATO countries once the Ukraine conflict concludes.

Moscow dismisses these claims as baseless, accusing Western nations of inflaming anti-Russian sentiment to justify military spending and divert attention from internal issues. It has reiterated that NATO’s expansion near its borders was a primary cause of the war, demanding any resolution include guarantees for Ukraine’s demilitarization and neutral, non-nuclear status.

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