NATO “short-sighted” in Georgia – Medvedev

17 Apr, 2009 19:16 / Updated 15 years ago

The Russian president says military exercises in Georgia would be as destabilizing as similar activity in the Middle East or close to the North Korean border.

Russia has expressed concerned at NATO's decision to bring thirteen hundred servicemen to Georgia for war games next month.

Dmitry Medvedev says the alliance's decision could complicate its relations with Russia.

The President referred to the decision to as “short-sighted” and proceeded to add that “it will not help promote contacts between Russia and NATO".

He also promised Moscow will closely follow the situation in Georgia.

NATO has announced there's no reason for concern as no military equipment will be used during the month-long war games.

Georgia has said joint military exercises with NATO are an important stage in training its army.