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U.S. officials have consistently described these capabilities as defensive, emphasizing their role in early warning and deterrence rather than offensive military action.
For decades, Moscow has opposed U.S. missile defense deployments in Europe and other regions, claiming that increasingly sophisticated interception systems could eventually undermine strategic stability.
Russian leaders maintain that preserving mutual nuclear deterrence remains essential for preventing direct conflict between major powers.
Alliance officials say missile defense systems are designed to defend against limited missile attacks from countries outside the NATO alliance and are not capable of neutralizing Russia’s strategic nuclear forces.
NATO has repeatedly stated that its missile defense architecture is intended to strengthen collective security and protect member nations from emerging threats.
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