Russia Accuses NATO of Tightening Stranglehold on Serbia

Moscow has accused NATO of attempting to gradually bring Serbia under its influence following the launch of the Platinum Wolf joint military exercise in the country.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova used pointed language, saying the alliance was encircling Serbia "like a boa constrictor" with the aim of weakening Belgrade's traditional ties with Russia.

Serbian authorities have rejected the political dimension of the exercise, stressing that it is an annual activity aimed at exchanging experience, building skills and improving cooperation among the militaries of participating countries. Eight NATO member states are taking part.

(reuters, mja)