America News Agency

The Director of the European Affairs Department of the Russian Foreign Ministry, Vladislav Maslennikov, stated that relations between Moscow and the North Atlantic Alliance are at their lowest point since the end of the Cold War, but emergency communication lines remain open.

In an interview with the Izvestia newspaper published on Monday, Maslennikov said: "Russia and NATO maintain so-called 'hotlines' and opportunities for emergency contacts. As for normal contacts and dialogue mechanisms that could be used to reduce tensions, the Alliance has rejected them. This was not our choice."

Maslennikov added: "Relations between Russia and NATO are not at their lowest point since the end of the Cold War. The Alliance clearly pursues a policy of opposing our country and limiting the alleged 'threat' posed by us. This happens in all areas and directions."

He emphasized: "Russia has never sought to worsen its relations with NATO, and the responsibility for their deterioration lies entirely with the Alliance."

Concluding, Maslennikov said: "We will not attack NATO countries, and we do not have such aggressive plans."