Russia has issued a stark warning over NATO's military exercises near its borders, specifically targeting the operations in Finland, which shares a 1,340-kilometer border with Russia.

The exercises, part of the larger Steadfast Defender 24 and including Immediate Response, have been described as the most significant in decades, involving up to 90,000 troops from all NATO members.

Russia's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Maria Zakharova, labeled these maneuvers as provocative, increasing the risk of military incidents.

Zakharova also stated that Russia would take all necessary measures to counter threats to its national security.

Meanwhile, Sweden is participating actively in these exercises, highlighting its capability to support NATO operations and emphasizing the strategic importance of the Nordic region.